Arise News anchor Oseni Rufai has urged former President Goodluck Jonathan to abandon his plans to contest the 2027 presidential election, warning that the same political forces pushing him to run were instrumental in his ouster from power in 2015. Rufai made the statement during the Wednesday edition of Arise Television’s ‘Morning Show’, where he emphasized the risks of re-engaging with individuals and groups who had previously undermined Jonathan’s leadership. He highlighted that despite growing speculation and internal party support, the former president should carefully consider the motives behind the current push for his candidacy.
Rufai revealed that he had received confidential messages from sources indicating that a coordinated effort is underway to position Jonathan as the PDP’s presidential candidate. He stressed that these efforts are being led by the same political actors who orchestrated his removal from office after the 2015 general election. “Those that are pushing you were those that disgraced you in 2015,” Rufai stated, adding that these individuals had used media platforms and political maneuvering to isolate and discredit Jonathan during his final term in power.
The Arise News anchor further pointed out that the same people now advocating for Jonathan’s return to the political forefront were the ones who had declared him unfit to lead in 2015. He warned Jonathan against being swayed by emotional appeals or pressure from within the party, urging him to reflect on the potential consequences of re-entering the presidential race under such circumstances. “I know the pressure is much on you to run. They are pushing, they are doing everything, but please be careful. Don’t listen to them. They’ll lead you astray,” Rufai cautioned.
This advice comes shortly after the Taminu Turaki-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) cleared Jonathan by waiver ahead of the party’s upcoming presidential primary. The waiver allows Jonathan to bypass the standard nomination process, signaling a level of internal party support for his candidacy. However, Rufai’s comments underscore a deep-seated skepticism about the sincerity of that support, suggesting it may be more strategic than genuine.
Jonathan’s potential return to presidential politics has sparked widespread debate across Nigeria, with supporters viewing it as a chance for a seasoned leader to reclaim the nation’s highest office. Critics, however, question whether he can overcome the political baggage of his 2015 exit and the economic challenges that marked his tenure. Rufai’s remarks add a layer of caution to the ongoing discussions, reminding stakeholders that political alliances can shift quickly and that past betrayals may resurface.
As the 2027 elections draw nearer, Jonathan’s decision will likely influence the dynamics of Nigeria’s political landscape, especially within the PDP. The coming months will reveal whether he heeds Rufai’s advice or chooses to re-enter the race despite the warnings.
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