By our reporter
A senior aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu could lose his re-election bid in 2027 if former President Goodluck Jonathan decides to contest. Demola Olarewaju, Atiku’s Senior Political Adviser, made this assertion while speaking on the shifting political dynamics ahead of the next general election.
Olarewaju argued that Jonathan remains the only Southern politician with the broad national appeal, experience, and credibility needed to defeat Tinubu in a direct contest. He said the former president’s reputation as a peaceful and democratic leader continues to resonate with many Nigerians, including voters in the northern region where Jonathan surprisingly maintains significant goodwill.
He further explained that Jonathan’s entry into the race, especially under a major opposition platform like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or a credible coalition, would energize discontented voters and present a formidable challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
However, Olarewaju emphasized that unity within the opposition will be crucial. He warned that if leading figures such as Jonathan, Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi contest separately on different platforms, the opposition vote could be split — potentially giving Tinubu a path to victory despite widespread dissatisfaction.
The statement has stirred varied reactions among political analysts and party stakeholders. While some agree that Jonathan’s return could shift the momentum in favor of the opposition, others argue it could have the opposite effect. Leke Abejide, a federal lawmaker and presidential hopeful under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), dismissed the prediction, insisting that Tinubu would still win in over 32 states even if Jonathan entered the race.
So far, former President Jonathan has not declared any intention to run in 2027. However, growing public speculation and nostalgia for his leadership style have fueled discussions about his possible political comeback.
Observers believe that if Jonathan re-enters the political arena, it could dramatically reshape the electoral map and create one of the most competitive presidential contests in Nigeria’s recent history.
