Arise News anchor and political commentator, Oseni Rufai, has advised former President Goodluck Jonathan against contesting in the 2027 presidential election, warning that those currently encouraging him to return to the political scene were the same individuals who allegedly worked against him during the 2015 general election.
Rufai made the remarks on Wednesday during Arise Television’s popular programme, The Morning Show, amid increasing speculation surrounding Jonathan’s possible return to active politics ahead of the next presidential race.
His comments followed reports that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), through a committee led by former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Taminu Turaki, had cleared Jonathan by waiver ahead of the party’s presidential primary, a development that has further fuelled discussions about his potential candidacy.
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Speaking during the programme, Rufai claimed that influential political figures were mounting pressure on the former president to join the race, despite their alleged role in his defeat nearly a decade ago.
“I walked through the phone lines, and I got some messages from my sources. They are saying the plot is actually thickening, that some people are pushing you,” Rufai said.
The broadcaster cautioned Jonathan to be wary of political allies whose loyalty may not be genuine, arguing that many of those backing him today were once instrumental in removing him from office in 2015.
“But I’ve got word for President Jonathan today. Those that are pushing you were those that disgraced you in 2015. They were those that used the media arsenal against you. Those that are behind you now and are pushing you to run were the same that did not find you worthy in 2015,” he added.
Rufai further stated that although he understood the level of pressure being placed on the former Nigerian leader, Jonathan should resist being persuaded into making a decision that could damage his legacy.
“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,” he warned.
Speculation surrounding Jonathan’s possible return to presidential politics has intensified in recent weeks, with supporters across different political blocs reportedly urging him to contest. However, the former president has yet to officially declare his intention to run in the 2027 election.
Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015 before losing his re-election bid to former President Muhammadu Buhari.
