By Seye Oladejo
The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has observed with keen interest the growing speculation surrounding the possible return of former President Goodluck Jonathan to the 2027 presidential race.
While we acknowledge the former president’s role in the peaceful democratic transition of 2015 — an act that rightly earned him praise at home and abroad — we must state, in clear terms, that Nigeria has since moved beyond the politics of sentiment, nostalgia, and symbolism. The challenges of today and the future require bold, capable, and forward-thinking leadership — not a return to the comfort of a past that was far from perfect.
Let it be clear: good luck alone is not a governance strategy.
The Jonathan administration, from 2010 to 2015, left behind a country grappling with severe structural weaknesses — from unchecked corruption to alarming insecurity and economic inertia. Nigerians still remember the massive fuel subsidy scandal, the billions unaccounted for in the oil sector, and the tragic inertia during the early days of Boko Haram’s insurgency, culminating in the infamous Chibok girls’ abduction.
While some may look back on those years with rose-tinted glasses, we must remind ourselves that nostalgia is not a policy platform. Emotion cannot drive economic reform, and sentimentality will not fix power generation, insecurity, youth unemployment, or education sector decay.
We also note the constitutional and political complications of a potential Jonathan candidacy. Having completed more than one term in office, any return bid will inevitably trigger legal contention and political instability — distractions Nigeria can ill afford in a time when decisive action is needed across all sectors of national life.
Moreover, the former president’s political relevance has been complicated by his recent engagements across party lines. His flirtation with the APC and absence from PDP’s strategic rebuilding efforts raise questions about his loyalty, clarity of vision, and political intentions.
For the avoidance of doubt, the APC remains focused on consolidating progress, implementing reforms, and engaging the Nigerian electorate with fresh ideas and credible candidates who reflect the aspirations of a dynamic, youthful population. We believe the future of Nigeria does not lie in recycled leadership but in visionary governance rooted in integrity, innovation, and resilience.
Former President Jonathan remains a respected elder statesman. His legacy as a peaceful democrat is assured. But legacies are not manifestoes, and nostalgia is not governance.
We urge Nigerians to reject emotional shortcuts and stay focused on the need for capable, accountable, and transformative leadership. As 2027 approaches, let us not reach backwards in desperation, but move forward with courage and clarity.
Mogaji (Hon) Seye Oladejo is the Lagos APC Spokesman.
29/08/25
