“Too Big To Lose? Jonathan Opts Out Of 2027 Race, Preserves Statesman Status”

2027 Presidency: Jonathan Resists Pressure to Rejoin Presidential Race

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is facing renewed pressure to return to the political arena and contest the 2027 presidential election, but sources close to him insist he has no such intention and prefers to maintain his statesmanly status.

According to IReporter Online, close associates and political allies have intensified efforts in recent weeks, urging Jonathan to throw his hat back into the ring. His Abuja residence has reportedly seen a surge of visits from those lobbying for his return to Aso Rock. However, insiders say Jonathan views the pressure as self-serving and designed to fracture Southern political unity ahead of the next general election.

One source was quoted as saying, “He would not allow himself to be used by those elements. He believes the South should complete its full eight-year tenure before power rotates to the North.”

According to IReporter Online, Jonathan has remained firm in private discussions, telling visitors that he has already played his part in Nigeria’s democratic journey and prefers to support others moving forward. While he has chosen not to make a public declaration just yet, his inner circle says his position is clear.

Further reinforcing this stance, Jonathan’s wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, publicly indicated in May that her husband has no plans to run in 2027. She expressed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that Tinubu had stood behind Jonathan in 2011, and it was only fair to return that gesture now. She also declared her support for the Renewed Hope Initiative spearheaded by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

Nevertheless, the PDP’s recent decision to zone its 2027 presidential ticket to the South has rekindled calls for Jonathan’s candidacy. Some party stakeholders, hoping to field a one-term president, have identified him as a strategic option.

Among those backing his return is Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, a founding member of the PDP.

According to IReporter Online, Lamido stated during a recent television interview that Jonathan remains “the party’s best bet” and should be courted by PDP leaders for the 2027 race.

Despite these efforts, Jonathan’s eligibility to contest is constitutionally in question. An amendment to the 1999 Constitution, passed after his tenure, stipulates that any individual who completes the term of another elected president may only be elected once more.

Section 137(3) of the Constitution reads:

“A person, who was sworn in to complete the term for which another person was elected as President, shall not be elected to such office for more than a single term.”

A similar restriction exists in Section 182(3) for governors.

With these legal and moral considerations in mind, Jonathan appears committed to remaining above the political fray, continuing instead in his role as an elder statesman, committed to national unity, peaceful transition, and democratic consolidation.

”IREPORTER REPORTS”