Leave Goodluck Jonathan Alone in 2027 – Let His Goodwill Endure
By Olaseeni Oyesusi, CEO D Chronicle Media Ventures
The Return of a Familiar Name
In recent months, the name of former President Goodluck Jonathan has resurfaced in political conversations across Nigeria. Posters are appearing, elders are holding meetings, and some groups are openly urging him to return to the presidential race in 2027.
“People want options they trust in a political climate they do not trust.”
At first glance, this looks like nostalgia. On closer look, it reveals a lot about where Nigeria stands today, and why dragging him back into the contest may do more harm than good.
1. Why the Push Is Happening Now
Nigerians are dealing with tough economic reforms, high inflation, currency volatility, and persistent insecurity. Many feel that the promises of change have not translated into relief at home. In that environment, memories of Jonathan’s tenure from 2010 to 2015 are being revisited.
What stands out in public memory is not perfection, but contrast. His concession speech in 2015, where he said “my ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian,” is still regarded as a rare moment of democratic maturity in Africa.
Under his watch, Nigeria rebased its GDP and briefly became the largest economy on the continent. Programs like the Agricultural Transformation Agenda and YouWiN were practical attempts to support farmers and young entrepreneurs.
People are not necessarily endorsing every decision he made. They are comparing the tone and tempo of that period to what they experience now. In that comparison, Jonathan looks like a safe, familiar option.
2. The PDP Crisis and the Temptation of a Unifier
The Peoples Democratic Party, the platform on which Jonathan governed, is currently fractured. Disputes over leadership, zoning, and the fallout from the 2023 elections have left the party unable to present a united front.
Some stakeholders see Jonathan as the only figure who can reconcile the warring camps without being seen as taking sides.
“The very crisis that makes him attractive could also consume the goodwill he has carefully built since 2015.”
But this is a double-edged sword. If he returns and the party remains divided, he inherits an ungovernable structure. If he contests and loses, the narrative shifts from “elder statesman” to “another failed politician.”
3. The Family’s Position and the Legal Angle
Former First Lady Patience Jonathan has been clear in public statements over the last few years. She has said her husband has done his part and should be allowed to rest. While a spouse does not make the final political decision, her comments reflect the family’s stance and shape public perception.
Legally, the door is open. A Federal High Court ruling in 2022 held that Jonathan is not barred from contesting again, since constitutional amendments do not apply retroactively.
Eligibility is not the issue. The issue is whether returning to the arena serves him or the country.
4. Why Letting Him Be Is the Wiser Path
Since leaving office, Jonathan has redefined himself outside partisan politics. Through the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, he has mediated elections, observed polls, and promoted peace across Africa. That role has earned him respect that few Nigerian politicians enjoy today.
Returning to contest would pull him back into the zero-sum battles of Nigerian politics. He would face the same attacks, scrutiny, and accusations that every candidate faces. The image of a statesman above the fray would be replaced by the image of a contender in the fight.
Nigeria does not lack presidential aspirants. What it lacks are elder statesmen who can mediate when the system breaks down. Jonathan is currently playing that role effectively. Preserving that role may be more valuable to the country than adding another name to the ballot.
Conclusion: Protecting a Rare Asset
The push to bring Goodluck Jonathan back is understandable. People want options they trust in a political climate they do not trust. But goodwill is fragile. Once he re-enters the contest, he becomes subject to the same cycle of criticism, division, and recrimination that has consumed others before him.
If the goal is to strengthen democracy, then Nigeria needs leaders both inside and outside the arena. Let those in the arena contest. Let those outside the arena help hold the country together when the contest becomes destructive.
“Goodluck Jonathan should be allowed to enjoy the goodwill while it lasts. That may end up being his most lasting contribution to Nigeria.”
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