Nigeria’s political landscape was thrown into fresh drama on Monday after reports emerged that former President Goodluck Jonathan will contest the 2027 presidential election — a move that has drawn a fiery response from the Presidency.
Professor Jerry Gana, a former Minister of Information and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stunned many when he announced that Jonathan would be on the ballot. Gana praised the ex-leader’s “humility, peace, and experience,” insisting that Nigerians are now demanding his return after years of disillusionment.
But the Presidency wasted no time in hitting back. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, declared that while Jonathan is “welcome to the race,” Nigerians will never forget the “dismal record” of his administration.
“Under Jonathan, Nigeria’s foreign reserves collapsed, billions in security funds were looted, and federal workers were left unpaid. Nigerians are not fools — they will not be deceived by the same cheerleaders who abandoned him in 2015 and are now desperate to resurrect his failed legacy,” Onanuga said in a scathing statement.
The Presidency further described the prospect of Jonathan flying the PDP flag as “absurd,” warning that he should brace for both legal battles and the wrath of public opinion if he decides to throw his hat in the ring.
So far, Jonathan himself has remained silent on the matter, neither confirming nor denying Gana’s proclamation. His possible return, however, has already sent shockwaves through the PDP, where heavyweights like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi are also believed to be eyeing the party’s ticket.
Political analysts say Jonathan’s comeback bid could reshape the 2027 contest, but his checkered past — from corruption scandals to insecurity — may haunt him every step of the way.
For now, Nigerians are left with one burning question: will Jonathan dare a second shot at Aso Rock — or is this just another political distraction?