2027: Why Jonathan Cannot Defeat Tinubu

2027: Why Jonathan Cannot Defeat Tinubu – Lagos APC
Party argues Nigeria has moved beyond nostalgia and sentiment-driven politics.
APC stresses need for visionary, capable, and forward-thinking leadership.

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said former President Goodluck Jonathan cannot defeat President Bola Tinubu if he contests the 2027 presidential election.

The APC, through its spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, made the statement on Friday in response to speculation that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is persuading Jonathan to run for the presidency on its platform.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Oladejo noted that although Jonathan earned respect in 2015 for conceding defeat peacefully as a sitting president, his style of governance does not align with Nigeria’s present needs.

“While we acknowledge the former president’s role in the peaceful democratic transition of 2015, Nigeria has since moved beyond the politics of sentiment, nostalgia, and symbolism,” Oladejo said.

He stressed that the challenges facing the nation require bold and forward-thinking leadership, not a return to what he described as the imperfections of Jonathan’s era. According to him, Jonathan left office in 2015 with the country struggling with insecurity and structural weaknesses in the economy.

Oladejo further argued that Jonathan’s possible return in 2027 may raise constitutional concerns, as he had already completed more than one term, including the remainder of Umaru Yar’Adua’s tenure. He also said Jonathan’s political relevance had diminished due to his weak ties with the PDP and his interactions across party lines, which cast doubts on his loyalty and clarity of vision.

The APC chieftain urged Nigerians to focus on capacity and accountability rather than emotions when choosing leaders.

“Former President Jonathan is respected as a peaceful democrat. His legacy is assured, but legacies are not manifestoes, and nostalgia is not governance,” Oladejo stated.

He added that Nigeria’s progress depends on visionary leadership rooted in integrity, innovation, and resilience, not on what he described as recycled leadership.