ANY ATTEMPT to bring forth former President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, for 2027 seems driven by a desire to hold power temporarily until a Northern leader takes over, rather than a genuine interest in development. We’ve seen the best of Jonathan’s leadership and PDP’s offerings. It’s best he enjoys the respect earned from prioritising national stability over personal ambition. Those urging him forward may have ulterior motives that could harm his reputation.
Some of those pushing for his candidacy in 2027 were instrumental in undermining his previous administration. Given the untrustworthy nature of politicians, it’s likely they’re using him for unknown motives. He should therefore not allow himself to be deceived. Perhaps he’s being positioned to do some political damages, or as a stepping stone for a neoliberal candidate in 2031 or to create ethnic tension between the zones in Southern Nigeria. Jonathan should be cautious of these multiple dynamics and potential ploys.
Nigeria’s situation has worsened significantly since then and the challenges we face today are far more complex and daunting than those during Jonathan’s tenure. Corruption and insecurity, arguably two sides of the same coin, were pressing issues then, and which have transmogrified in the APC government’s lacklustre performance in the past ten years, exacerbating our existential challenges, plunging the nation into deeper uncertainties. It’s unlikely that another Jonathan administration could effectively address the current monumental challenges.
Without doubt, former President Jonathan exemplifies exceptional leadership qualities – he is humble, a listening leader, not yacht-crazy, and empathetic, emotionally intelligent, unpretentious and unassuming, free from corruption, simple and modest.
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Despite false accusations fuelled by power hunger and tribal agendas, his track record speaks for itself. Jonathan’s leadership style is a testament to his character, and his traceable humble background had remained consistent throughout his presidential odyssey. However, all these good qualities do not qualify him to return to power in 2027.
His administration was criticised for corruption, and the PDP’s 16-year rule was marked by significant economic mismanagement. Although he has positive attributes that qualify him as a statesman, but he is not our choice for 2027 presidency.
Attempts to promote Jonathan definitely have some hidden agendas. The truth is, corruption was widespread across parties during his period, with various leaders facing allegations and Jonathan could not muster the requisite leadership courage to tackle the menace.
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Under former President Obasanjo, the current National Security Adviser and former EFCC chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, compiled a list of alleged most corrupt governors and they were governors from all parties and not just PDP.
Nigeria’s situation has worsened significantly since then and the challenges we face today are far more complex and daunting than those during Jonathan’s tenure. Corruption and insecurity, arguably two sides of the same coin, were pressing issues then, and which have transmogrified in the APC government’s lacklustre performance in the past ten years, exacerbating our existential challenges, plunging the nation into deeper uncertainties. It’s unlikely that another Jonathan administration could effectively address the current monumental challenges.
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PDP government’s ideas for Nigeria’s development and growth seemed exhausted by 2015. A Jonathan comeback cannot offer us anything fresh. While they introduced inclusivity and gave citizens a sense of value helping us to heal from military-inflicted wounds, Nigerians craved more – particularly effective anti-corruption measures and fight against insecurity.
It’s unsurprising that some individuals now tolerate issues they previously criticised under President Jonathan’s administration. Those benefiting from the current system often defend it, even if it’s flawed and at the expense of the broader society. This selective outrage suggests that some people’s priorities are driven by self-interest rather than principle. We love Jonathan, but he cannot be our Goodluck in 2027.
The then newly formed APC saw the weaknesses, campaigned against then and got the support of the people. Ten years later, the APC has worsened corruption and insecurity, widening tribal divides and eroding national unity. Federal appointments are now often based on tribal affiliations, rather than merit.
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For the APC to retain power beyond 2027, they’d likely need to: suppress the opposition and shrink political space, exacerbate ethnic divisions and fuel hatred, rely on vote-buying and exploit economic hardship, utilise executive power to intimidate, blackmail, and rig elections. These approaches will certainly undermine democratic principles and further destabilise the nation. Nigerians know that the party has eroded trust in the institutions of governance.
The party courting Jonathan is likely aligned with the ruling government, which could be a tactic to undermine Peter Obi’s support in the South. Obi stands out as a genuine opposition leader, challenging the government’s moves and offering alternative solutions. His commitment to Nigeria’s progress is clear. Rather than supporting a potentially compromised effort, Jonathan and like-minded Nigerians, especially the youth, should rally behind Obi. By doing so, Jonathan’s legacy would be further enhanced.
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Nigeria’s foundation is under severe threat, and development cannot thrive in such instability. Rebuilding our foundation is the most important assignment for now. The past decade’s outcomes are a direct result of prioritising tribal agendas over national interests. Given our winner-takes-all political system, the presidency’s occupant is crucial, and the choice of leader will significantly impact the nation’s trajectory. It’s imperative to choose a leader who prioritises national unity and progress.
It’s unsurprising that some individuals now tolerate issues they previously criticised under President Jonathan’s administration. Those benefiting from the current system often defend it, even if it’s flawed and at the expense of the broader society. This selective outrage suggests that some people’s priorities are driven by self-interest rather than principle. We love Jonathan, but he cannot be our Goodluck in 2027.
Comrade Amechi, a trade union activist, writes from Lagos.
