Group Backs Jonathan for 2027, Dismisses Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso as Weak Contenders

A political pressure group, Bring Back Our Goodluck (BBOG), has dismissed the chances of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) leader, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in the 2027 presidential election, declaring that they lack the political strength to defeat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The group, at a press conference in Kano on Sunday, argued that only former President Goodluck Jonathan possesses the experience, national spread, and credibility needed to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

National Coordinator of BBOG, Dr. Grema Kyari, warned that unless opposition leaders form a united front, the APC would remain firmly in control of power. He faulted what he described as “self-serving ambitions” among opposition figures, noting that their division in 2023 cleared the path for Tinubu’s victory.

“Until Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, and others jettison their personal ambitions and support a neutral and competent candidate, Nigerians should expect another split that will benefit the APC in 2027,” Kyari said.

He urged leading opposition figures, including Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, former Rivers governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Senate President David Mark, and ex-minister Rauf Aregbesola, to rally behind Jonathan.

According to him, Jonathan’s return would mirror international precedents where former leaders such as Donald Trump in the United States and John Mahama in Ghana were recalled to power.

Kyari also appealed directly to Jonathan, saying the former president must “heed the voice of the masses” and return to complete his second term.

The group criticised the APC-led administration, lamenting worsening hunger, poverty, insecurity, and what it described as “economic collapse” under President Tinubu.

“Nigeria is bleeding economically, socially, and politically. Under Bola Tinubu’s watch, hardship has intensified, insecurity has worsened, and divisions have deepened. Nigerians are yearning for a leader who understands the weight of power, not one experimenting with our destiny,” Kyari declared.