By Muhammad Mamman
The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed speculation that former President Goodluck Jonathan could unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, insisting that his political relevance has long faded.
In a statement on Friday, APC spokesperson Seye Oladejo acknowledged Jonathan’s role in overseeing the peaceful handover of power in 2015, which earned him praise at home and abroad, but argued that Nigeria had “moved beyond politics of sentiment, nostalgia and symbolism.”
Oladejo said:
“While we respect the former president’s contribution to democracy, the challenges of today and tomorrow demand bold, capable and forward-looking leadership — not a return to the comfort of a past that was far from perfect. Good luck alone is not a governance strategy.”
He accused Jonathan’s administration (2010–2015) of leaving behind a nation crippled by entrenched corruption, insecurity and economic stagnation.
“Those years may be remembered fondly by some, but nostalgia is not a policy platform. Emotion cannot drive reforms, nor can sentimentality solve power shortages, unemployment, insecurity or the decay in our education system,” Oladejo stressed.
He further warned that any renewed presidential bid by Jonathan — having already served more than one term — would spark legal disputes and political instability that Nigeria cannot afford.
Oladejo also questioned Jonathan’s political loyalty, pointing to his dalliance with the APC and absence from the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) rebuilding efforts. “His shifting allegiances raise doubts about his clarity of vision and political intentions,” he noted.
While describing Jonathan as a respected elder statesman, Oladejo emphasised that “legacies are not manifestoes, and nostalgia is not governance.” He urged Nigerians to prioritise integrity, innovation and transformative leadership over recycled figures from the past.
“As 2027 approaches, the nation must resist the temptation to reach backwards in desperation. The task before us is to move forward with courage, clarity and conviction,” he concluded.
