As political calculations and realignments continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido has advised former President Goodluck Jonathan to stay away from partisan political contests, warning that attempts to lure him back into active politics could damage his legacy as a national statesman.
Lamido, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, made his position known in a statement posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday amid growing speculation surrounding Jonathan’s possible return to frontline politics. The former governor described recent calls urging Jonathan to re-enter the political arena as misplaced, unnecessary and largely driven by political desperation among individuals seeking relevance ahead of the next election cycle.
According to Lamido, Jonathan has already played his role in Nigeria’s democratic journey and should now focus on preserving the image and respect he has earned both locally and internationally since leaving office. He argued that the former president currently occupies a unique position as an elder statesman whose influence transcends partisan politics and regional interests, stressing that returning to active political contests could diminish that stature.
Lamido maintained that Jonathan’s reputation today is largely tied to the manner in which he handled the 2015 presidential transition, when he conceded defeat and peacefully handed over power, a decision widely regarded as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history. The PDP stalwart warned that political actors attempting to draft Jonathan into future electoral battles were motivated more by personal ambition and strategic calculations than genuine national interest.
According to him, many of those pushing for Jonathan’s return are doing so because they believe his name, popularity and political goodwill could help reposition certain political interests ahead of 2027. Lamido stated that while Jonathan remains constitutionally qualified to participate in politics like any Nigerian citizen, wisdom and national interest should guide decisions about whether former leaders should return to partisan contests after leaving office.
He stressed that elder statesmen play more valuable roles when they serve as voices of moderation, unity and democratic stability rather than becoming deeply involved in divisive political struggles. The former governor also cautioned against allowing Nigeria’s political environment to become excessively dependent on former leaders, arguing that the country must continue to nurture new generations of political leadership. He noted that the nation’s democracy would grow stronger when institutions and emerging leaders are empowered instead of repeatedly recycling former officeholders.
Lamido’s comments come at a time when political discussions across party lines have intensified over possible alliances, defections and presidential calculations ahead of the next general elections. In recent months, several political groups and stakeholders have publicly appealed to Jonathan to consider returning to active politics, with some reportedly suggesting he could serve as a consensus figure capable of bridging political and regional divides.
Supporters of the idea have often pointed to Jonathan’s international profile, diplomatic engagements and relatively peaceful post-presidency image as reasons he could still play a major role in Nigeria’s future politics. However, critics of the proposal insist that Nigeria’s democratic evolution requires the emergence of fresh leadership rather than renewed dependence on former presidents. Lamido appeared to align with that position, insisting that Jonathan’s continued relevance should not be measured solely by electoral participation.
He argued that the former president could contribute more meaningfully to national development through statesmanship, mediation, mentorship and advocacy for democratic values rather than through direct partisan involvement. The former governor further suggested that preserving Jonathan’s current image as a respected national figure would ultimately serve both the former president and the country better in the long run.
Political observers say the statement reflects growing debate within Nigeria’s political class over the direction of opposition politics and the search for influential figures capable of shaping the 2027 contest. Analysts also believe Lamido’s remarks may signal broader concerns among some senior politicians about the increasing speculation surrounding possible political comebacks by former leaders.
Despite the mounting conversations, Jonathan himself has not formally declared any intention to contest future elections, and he has largely maintained a measured public posture focused on diplomacy, governance advocacy and international engagements. Still, the continued mention of his name in political discussions highlights the level of uncertainty and strategic maneuvering already taking shape ahead of the 2027 elections.
Lamido concluded by urging political actors to focus on strengthening democratic institutions and promoting credible leadership instead of relying on nostalgia or desperation-driven political calculations.
