WIKE WARNS JONATHAN AGAINST 2027 COMEBACK BID

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged former President Goodluck Jonathan to shelve any ambition of returning to the presidency in 2027, warning that such a move could erode his global reputation and diminish the respect he currently enjoys across Africa and beyond.
Speaking during an interaction with journalists, Wike dismissed growing speculation that Jonathan might be plotting a political comeback. He argued that while Jonathan has carved a niche as a respected statesman, particularly through his peace-building roles across the continent, attempting to run again could undermine his hard-earned image. Wike pointed out the irony in the fact that those now pushing Jonathan towards a comeback are the same individuals who abandoned him during the 2015 election, leading to his defeat.
The FCT Minister emphasized that Nigeria’s political class must learn from history and avoid recycling past leaders in ways that do not serve the nation’s best interest. He added that Jonathan’s legacy of peaceful transition of power in 2015 remains one of the most celebrated in Africa and should not be tainted by a controversial return to the race.
On his own political future, Wike reiterated that he has no interest in the 2027 presidential election, especially as his principal, President Bola Tinubu, is still in office. He stressed that his focus remains on delivering infrastructural development in the FCT and strengthening the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Wike also called for unity within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), urging members to avoid distractions and prepare for a more constructive role in Nigeria’s democratic journey. He maintained that Jonathan’s best contribution at this stage of his career would be to mentor younger politicians and consolidate his peace-building engagements rather than stepping back into the turbulent waters of presidential politics.