Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has expressed concern over reported moves by former President Goodluck Jonathan to return to active presidential politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In an open letter dated June 3, 2026, and made available to
journalists, Adeyanju said Jonathan’s possible participation in the 2027 race
could expose him to Nigeria’s “fragile” and “divided” political environment.
He said while he holds the former president in high regard,
returning to frontline politics at this time may not serve his legacy
positively.
“I write to you as a well-wisher and someone who has long
admired your leadership style and your commitment to democratic values. It is
precisely from that place of respect that I feel compelled to say candidly that
the growing conversations around your intended return to active presidential
politics are worrying,” he said.
Adeyanju warned that Nigeria’s current political climate is
unstable and could complicate any fresh attempt by the former president to
contest.
He also cautioned that the electoral process itself could
attract controversy capable of affecting Jonathan’s international reputation
and statesmanlike image.
“As someone with your global standing and the respect you
continue to command both at home and abroad, I worry that subjecting yourself
to the roughness of another electoral contest at this moment may not serve your
legacy well,” he stated.
He advised Jonathan to instead continue serving as an elder
statesman whose influence is exercised through guidance and counsel rather than
electoral ambition.
“For these reasons, I sincerely hope you will consider
stepping away from any such ambition and continue to serve in the higher role
of an elder statesman on the continent,” he added.
The development comes amid reports that a faction of the
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki had allegedly
cleared Jonathan as its sole presidential candidate ahead of the 2027
elections, though internal party dynamics remain unsettled.
A source close to Jonathan’s camp had earlier suggested that
discussions were ongoing over the platform with the best chances for a possible
return to the presidency.
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