Nigeria Has Outgrown Jonathan – Lagos APC Explains Why He Can’t Defeat Tinubu

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has declared that former President Goodluck Jonathan would stand no chance against President Bola Tinubu if he decides to contest in the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement issued on Friday, the party’s spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, argued that Nigeria has moved past the era of “sentiment, nostalgia, and symbolism” which, according to him, largely define Jonathan’s political appeal. His remarks come amid reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is considering persuading Jonathan to run on its platform in 2027.

Oladejo acknowledged Jonathan’s widely celebrated role in conceding defeat during the 2015 election — a move that earned him respect both at home and abroad. However, he insisted that Jonathan’s leadership style does not align with Nigeria’s current realities and future challenges.

“While we commend the former president for his historic role in the peaceful transition of power in 2015, the fact remains that Nigeria has since outgrown the politics of nostalgia and emotion. The challenges before us today demand bold, visionary, and decisive leadership — not a return to a past that was far from perfect. Let it be clear: good luck alone is not a governance strategy,” Oladejo said.

He further argued that Jonathan’s administration left behind deep structural problems, citing insecurity, economic fragility, and weak governance structures. According to him, many who romanticize Jonathan’s tenure forget that “sentimentality cannot solve power shortages, insecurity, unemployment, or educational decay.”

Oladejo also noted that Jonathan’s potential comeback would stir constitutional controversies, given that he has already served more than one term, including the remainder of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua’s tenure. He added that Jonathan’s political standing has weakened due to his “flirtation with the APC” and detachment from PDP’s rebuilding efforts, raising doubts about his loyalty and vision.

The APC chieftain emphasized that Nigeria must not fall into the trap of emotional politics in 2027.

“Former President Jonathan remains a respected elder statesman, and his legacy as a peaceful democrat is intact. But legacies are not manifestoes, and nostalgia is not governance. Nigeria’s future depends on leaders who are innovative, accountable, and courageous enough to make tough decisions. As 2027 approaches, we must resist the temptation to look backwards in desperation and instead move forward with clarity and purpose,” he said.