IN BAD FAITH? WHY FORMER PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN MIGHT NOT BE CONTESTING IN THE 2027 ELECTIONS

IN BAD FAITH? WHY FORMER PRESIDENT GOODLUCK JONATHAN MIGHT NOT BE CONTESTING IN THE 2027 ELECTIONS

- by Noble Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje (KSJI)

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As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, the question of who should vie for the presidency is gaining intense public and political attention. Among those often discussed is former President Goodluck Jonathan, who served from 2010 to 2015. While Jonathan remains a respected figure in Nigerian politics, there are compelling reasons why he should reconsider contesting in 2027, especially when considering the evolving political dynamics shaped by figures like Peter Obi and the rising political consciousness of the Southeast region.

 

1. The Rise of Peter Obi and a New Political Narrative

 

Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, emerged as a major political force during the 2023 presidential elections. His appeal, particularly among young Nigerians and the middle class, was based on a platform of good governance, transparency, and economic reforms. Obi’s candidacy symbolized a break from the traditional political elite and resonated strongly across Nigeria, especially in the Southeast. It must be appreciated that the Southeast was a major supporting political block for Jonathan during his previous elections, whereas he did not execute any significant project in the Southeast during his tenure, not even the much needed second Niger Bridge.

 

Jonathan’s attempt to return could be seen as a regression to old politics. The political momentum now favors fresh, credible leadership that reflects Nigeria’s youthful demographic and desire for change. Obi represents this new narrative, while Jonathan is often associated with the status quo, which many voters feel has not delivered the transformation Nigeria desperately needs. Jonathan contesting might risk splitting votes and undermining the unity and progress the Southeast community and Obi’s supporters nationwide.

 

2. The Southeast’s Quest for True Representation

 

The Southeast region of Nigeria, home to millions of Igbo people, along with Igbo populations in various States of the South South and North Central, has long sought equitable political inclusion at the federal level. After decades of political marginalization, the region’s political actors and electorate have increasingly demanded authentic representation rather than symbolic gestures.

 

Jonathan’s previous presidency did not fully address the Southeast’s longstanding demands for inclusion and development. Many in the Southeast view Peter Obi as a genuine representative of their aspirations, and an opportunity for President Jonathan and South South to reciprocate and support a Southeast candidate, instead of positioning to split the votes. Obi’s leadership style and political platform directly address the Nigerian Youths’ and Southeast’s hopes for a presidency that would deliver structural reforms, economic opportunities, and greater national integration.

 

If Jonathan contests, it could dilute the Southeast’s political voice and potentially divide voters who are looking to present a united front behind a candidate from the region, further delaying the region’s political breakthrough. Arguably too, the Southeast will view it as a ‘backstabbing’ and ingratitude for all their votes for former President Jonathan. It was the support of the Southeast for Jonathan to made former President Buhari to refer to 5% votes and infamous derogatory “dot” size for the Southeast.

 

3. Jonathan’s Political Legacy and Its Limits

 

President Goodluck Jonathan’s presidency was marked by both achievements and controversies, including challenges with security, economic management, and allegations of corruption. While his tenure saw some developmental strides, many Nigerians are eager to move beyond his administration’s legacy. Given that Jonathan has been out of office for over a decade, a return bid may be viewed as an attempt to reclaim past glory rather than focus on Nigeria’s future. In contrast, Peter Obi’s rise signals a new generation of leaders who are less tied to the old political order and more focused on reform.

 

4. The Need for Political Renewal

 

Nigeria’s democratic evolution requires periodic renewal of its leadership cadre. The 2027 elections present an opportunity to deepen democracy by encouraging new leaders who embody integrity, inclusiveness, and forward-thinking policies. Jonathan’s candidacy might be interpreted as a setback to this renewal.

 

Conclusion

 

In the context of Peter Obi’s ascendancy and the Southeast’s growing political alertness, former President Goodluck Jonathan contesting the 2027 presidential elections would likely be counterproductive. It risks fragmenting the opposition vote, undermining regional unity, and slowing Nigeria’s political renewal. Nigeria’s democracy and its citizens deserve leadership that reflects the country’s dynamic realities and aspirations — a mantle better carried by new leaders emerging from the Southeast and beyond. For Jonathan, the wiser course might be to support the next generation of leadership and contribute to Nigeria’s future in other impactful ways.

 

Noble Dr. Uzodinma Adirieje is a distinguished and multidimensional communicator whose work as a writer, columnist, blogger, reviewer, editor, and author bridges the intersections of global health, sustainable development, human rights, climate justice, and governance.