Politics
By Anthony Isibor
THE Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has urged former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to resist mounting calls for a return to active presidential politics ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that another electoral contest can jeopardize the former leader’s hard-earned legacy.
In an open letter addressed to Jonathan and made public on Tuesday, Adeyanju expressed concern over increasing speculation linking the former president to a possible bid for Nigeria’s highest office under the platform of of the opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP.
While describing himself as a long-time admirer of Jonathan’s leadership style and commitment to democratic values, Adeyanju stated that the current political environment presents significant risks for a former leader whose reputation has largely been defined by his peaceful transfer of power in 2015.
“I write to you as a well-wisher and someone who has long admired your leadership style and your commitment to democratic values,” Adeyanju stated in the letter.
He argued that Nigeria’s political landscape remains fragile and warned that the PDP, the party under which Jonathan previously served as president, is facing internal divisions that can complicate any future political ambition.
According to Adeyanju, Jonathan’s stature as a respected statesman and international democracy advocate could be diminished by the controversies and intense political battles that often accompany presidential campaigns.
“The process itself risks unnecessary controversy that could unintentionally diminish the statesmanlike stature you have earned,” he wrote.
The activist advised the former president to continue serving in a broader leadership capacity across Africa and beyond rather than returning to partisan politics.
He said Jonathan’s influence would be better utilized through mentorship, diplomacy and democratic advocacy, roles that have increasingly defined the former president’s post-presidential career.
“For these reasons, I sincerely hope you will consider stepping away from any such ambition and continue to serve in the higher role of an elder statesman on the continent whose influence is felt through guidance and wisdom, rather than electoral contest,” Adeyanju stated.
The letter comes amid recurring speculation about Jonathan’s political future and the search by opposition figures for a formidable candidate capable of challenging the ruling establishment in the 2027 presidential election.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, has not publicly declared any intention to contest the 2027 election. However, discussions about a potential political comeback have periodically surfaced within political circles, particularly as opposition parties seek consensus figures with national appeal.
A.I
June 3, 2026
Tags: Deji Adeyanju Goodluck Ebele Jonathan PDP