APC Lagos Questions Jonathan’s Relevance in 2027 Race, Calls for Fresh Leadership

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has reacted to growing speculation about a possible 2027 presidential comeback bid by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Jonathan, who lost his 2015 re-election bid to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, is reportedly being urged by supporters to rejoin the race.

In a statement released on Friday, APC Lagos spokesperson, Mr. Seye Oladejo, argued that Jonathan’s political relevance in unseating President Bola Tinubu remains doubtful.

“While we respect Jonathan’s role in the peaceful democratic transition of 2015 — a gesture that earned him global praise — Nigeria has since outgrown politics rooted in sentiment and nostalgia,” Oladejo said.

He stressed that the nation requires bold, capable, and innovative leadership to confront its challenges, not a return to what he described as the imperfections of the past.

Oladejo criticized Jonathan’s 2010–2015 administration, accusing it of leaving behind widespread corruption, insecurity, and economic stagnation. He warned that any fresh presidential bid would not only stir legal and constitutional controversies, given Jonathan’s previous terms, but also risk political instability.

He further noted that Jonathan’s recent political alignments across party lines, including interactions with the APC and his absence from the PDP’s rebuilding efforts, cast doubts on his loyalty and intentions.

The APC, he said, remains committed to driving reforms, promoting fresh ideas, and presenting credible candidates who reflect the aspirations of Nigeria’s youthful population.

“Jonathan’s legacy as a peaceful democrat is secure, but legacies are not manifestoes. Nostalgia cannot power reforms, and sentiment will not address unemployment, insecurity, or educational decay,” Oladejo said.

He urged Nigerians to look beyond emotional appeals and focus on electing capable, accountable, and transformative leaders in 2027.