APC Dismisses Jonathan Comeback In 2027 Race

The Lagos chapter of the All Progressives Congress has reacted to speculations about a possible return of former President Goodluck Jonathan in the 2027 presidential election, saying his chances of unseating President Bola Tinubu are slim.

The party noted that Jonathan, despite being a respected statesman, no longer commands the kind of influence needed to alter the country’s political direction.

The discussion about Jonathan’s return to active politics resurfaced as some supporters began urging him to contest again. Jonathan, who led Nigeria between 2010 and 2015, lost his reelection bid to the late President Muhammadu Buhari. Since then, his name has continued to appear in conversations around possible political comebacks, especially ahead of the 2027 polls.

The APC insisted that Nigeria has moved beyond a reliance on sentiment and nostalgia in choosing its leaders. According to the party, today’s realities demand leaders who can drive reform, tackle insecurity, stabilize the economy, and create opportunities for young people. The ruling party argued that the challenges of governance cannot be solved by returning to a past era that it said struggled with corruption, insecurity, and weak economic performance.

The party also pointed out that Jonathan’s years in office were marred by problems that Nigeria still grapples with. It stated that those challenges cannot be ignored simply because of the goodwill he earned by conceding defeat in 2015. The APC said national development requires strategy and vision, not emotional appeals or the recycling of past leaders.

Beyond performance issues, the APC noted that Jonathan’s possible candidacy would raise constitutional and political questions. Since he already completed more than one term, any attempt to run again would likely trigger legal battles and political tension at a time when the country requires stability.

Another concern raised was Jonathan’s political alignment. The party observed that he has engaged across party lines in recent years, sometimes appearing close to the APC and at other times distant from the Peoples Democratic Party, where he built his political career. This, it said, creates doubt about his commitment and long-term vision.

The ruling party maintained that it remains focused on consolidating reforms under Tinubu’s leadership while preparing to present fresh candidates in 2027 who reflect the energy and aspirations of Nigeria’s youthful population. It added that the future belongs to leaders who can innovate, rebuild institutions, and inspire confidence across the country.

While acknowledging Jonathan’s place in history as a peaceful democrat and elder statesman, the APC said Nigeria must look forward rather than backward. The party called on Nigerians to resist clinging to the past and instead embrace leadership that is capable, accountable, and forward-thinking as the nation heads toward another election season.