Jonathan should stay out of 2027 race — Lamido

As Nigeria navigates the complex political landscape leading up to the 2027 general elections, prominent figures are weighing in on potential candidacies and the future direction of the nation's politics. Former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido has strongly advised former President Goodluck Jonathan to steer clear of partisan political contests, asserting that such involvement would be ill-advised and potentially damaging to his respected elder statesman status.

“

It is unfair and ill-opportune to drag his person into the current murky political arena populated by unserious, self-seeking and self-serving characters.

Lamido's counsel comes amidst growing speculation and calls from various stakeholders for Jonathan to re-enter active politics. However, the former governor dismisses these appeals as stemming from 'helplessness and hopelessness' and a 'desperation call' rather than any coherent political strategy. He contends that Jonathan now occupies a distinguished global position that should not be undermined by engaging in the 'murky political arena' populated by what Lamido describes as 'unserious, self-seeking and self-serving characters.'

The critique extends to the broader state of political parties in Nigeria, which Lamido characterizes as lacking ideological grounding and primarily focused on power acquisition for 2027. He believes that any pressure on Jonathan to return to the fray is a reflection of public frustration with the country's current political and economic conditions, rather than a genuine endorsement of his potential candidacy. Lamido urges Jonathan to resist these 'ego-caressing' appeals that seek to leverage his name for political advantage.

“

The call for President Jonathan to hop into the political arena, no matter how well-intentioned, stems from the helplessness and hopelessness Nigeria has found itself in.

From our vantage point, Lamido's intervention highlights a significant debate within Nigerian political discourse: the role of former leaders and the nature of political ambition. While some see Jonathan as a potential stabilizing force, Lamido's perspective emphasizes the importance of preserving the dignity of elder statesmen and fostering a political environment driven by ideology rather than desperation. His remarks serve as a cautionary note against using respected figures as mere political tools, advocating instead for a more principled and forward-looking approach to national leadership.

“

While the call is appreciated, it is a desperation call lacking in any depth beyond being a ventilator of frustration.