Three public‑affairs analysts have offered their perspectives on the growing calls for former President Goodluck Jonathan to return to Nigeria’s leadership. Sir Leonard Anyogo, Director General of Good Governance Advocacy International, said that it is within Jonathan’s political rights to seek a comeback, but the ultimate decision lies with the Nigerian electorate, provided the process is fair.
Dr Peter Iyali, national president of the UNICROSS alumni association and an APC chieftain, exercised caution. He suggested that the talk of Jonathan’s return might be fueled by politicians seeking to divide the southern vote ahead of 2027. Iyali warned that Jonathan should not allow himself to be used as a pawn in such a political game, recalling that the same forces now urging him on were instrumental in working against him a decade ago.
Justice Osai Ahiakwo, a lawyer and public‑affairs commentator, noted that political comebacks by former leaders are not unprecedented globally, citing examples such as Grover Cleveland and Donald Trump. According to Ahiakwo, Jonathan’s potential return cannot be dismissed as strange or misplaced; it reflects a growing conviction that his leadership style could offer inclusiveness, stability, and renewed direction at a time when Nigeria faces economic decline, insecurity, and low public trust. He reminded that Jonathan is not barred from contesting in 2027 on constitutional grounds and that the momentum for his return may be a genuine groundswell of public sentiment.
The analysts agreed that the final decision rests with Jonathan himself and the Nigerian electorate. The debate underscores a deeper national yearning for leadership that can restore hope, unity, and good governance. Jonathan’s record from 2010 to 2015 is being reassessed more favorably, with many recalling the atmosphere of tolerance and relative calm during his tenure. Whether he answers the call to return or leaves the stage to a new generation of leaders remains to be seen, but his response will shape Nigeria’s unfolding political narrative ahead of 2027.
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