The Nigerian Presidency has responded to rumors that former President Goodluck Jonathan may run in the 2027 presidential election. According to PDP chieftain Prof. Jerry Gana, Jonathan intends to contest the presidency on the PDP platform. However, the Presidency has raised concerns about his eligibility, citing constitutional requirements. President Bola Tinubu’s spokesperson, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, said that the courts will ultimately decide whether Jonathan—who was sworn in twice as president—can run again.
The Presidency also criticized Jonathan’s economic record, alleging that his administration caused a sharp decline in the country’s foreign reserves and the Excess Crude Account. During his tenure, reserves fell from $46 billion to below $30 billion, while the Excess Crude Account dropped from $20 billion to $2 billion. The government attributed this decline to what it described as frivolous spending that damaged the economy.
In contrast, the Presidency highlighted President Tinubu’s economic achievements. Reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the abolition of multiple exchange rates have, according to the administration, stabilized the economy. Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23 % in the second quarter of 2025, outpacing the International Monetary Fund’s projection. Inflation fell to 20.12 % in August 2025—the lowest level in three years—and foreign reserves have risen to $42.03 billion. The naira has virtually stabilized, and investor confidence in the economy has been restored.
The possibility of Jonathan’s candidacy in the 2027 election carries significant implications for Nigerian politics. The election’s outcome will depend on factors such as candidate eligibility and the performance of the current administration. As the vote approaches, Nigerians will have the chance to assess the records of the contenders and decide the country’s future.
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