Supporters of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu have cautioned former President Goodluck Jonathan against contesting the 2027 presidential election. The Progressive Network for Tinubu in Ondo State issued the warning, stating that Jonathan’s participation would be an exercise in futility. According to the group, President Tinubu faces no serious opposition ahead of the 2027 poll.
The warning comes on the heels of reports suggesting Jonathan may contest the election under a yet-to-be-disclosed political party. This has sparked a lawsuit, with a legal practitioner, Johnmary Jideobi, seeking a court injunction to prevent Jonathan from running. The Director-General of the Progressive Network for Tinubu, Olumide Obadele, emphasized that beyond legal hurdles, Jonathan should prioritize his reputation as a statesman and refrain from contesting.
Obadele asserted that opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Congress, are struggling to remain relevant, making it unlikely for any candidate, including Jonathan, to defeat President Tinubu. He dismissed claims that the All Progressives Congress is anxious about Jonathan’s potential candidacy, citing constitutional and legal constraints that make his participation highly unlikely. Obadele stated, “The Constitution is clear, and there’s no need to twist it. If he insists on running, he will only end up embarrassed.”
The development highlights the complexities of Nigerian politics, where legal and constitutional requirements often influence the outcome of elections. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, the situation will likely continue to unfold, with various stakeholders taking positions on the eligibility and viability of potential candidates. The warning from President Tinubu’s supporters serves as a reminder of the intense political maneuvering that characterizes Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
