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Special Report :Goodluck Jonathan’s Potential 2027 Presidential Contest: Analysts Say His Return Could Unite or Divide Nigeria’s Opposition

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10 months ago

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Ebele Jonathan, since his gentlemanly exit from the Villa in 2015, coupled with his peace building efforts in countries like Cote D’Ivoire, Mali, Kenya, and the rest, has managed to earn himself reputation beyond the country.

Consequently, the Sunhak 2025 peace prize award was given to him; solidifying his contribution to peace building and conflict resolution over the years across the globe. The gentleman has been identified with ‘water’, as it is known to have no enemies.

In what looks like a plot twist in the Nigeria’s political terrain, while the country has its gaze fixated on the coalition leaders and the ruling party for a showdown in the forthcoming presidential election, an anonymous personality revealed that this gentleman has considered running for the office one more time. Although no confirmation has been made from the former president himself on the matter, but it’s concerning that the anonymous personality is said to be a political associate of him, and he keeping mum ever since the revelation.

Assuming the revelation is factual that he is going to contest in the forthcoming presidential election, what are his chances of securing the needed numbers to emerge as the president again? Walk with us as the Nigerian Tracker’s political correspondent, Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa, unravel the puzzle with political analysts:

Political Analysts Unraveled The Puzzle

Dr. Kabir Sufi, a political analyst, was asked if Good luck Jonathan would attract votes from regions beyond his if he decides to contest in the forthcoming presidential candidates and he responded that for the fact that his call to contest again is coming from another region(North), there’s every likelihood that he will enjoy votes from other regions:

“His candidacy would attract votes from other regions apart from the south south, especially from the three regions in the north where the call is coming from.”

On his chances of negatively affecting the opposition potency to truncate Tinubu’s re-election bid, Dr. Sufi analysed that unless the coalition leaders and Jonathan himself rally round a single candidate to race with the ruling party in the forthcoming election, the opposition votes would be split and that would automatically give president Tinubu the win:

“It’s obvious that he would contest under the platform of his own party, PDP. And if that happens while the ADC and SDP field their candidates, there’s definitely going to be vote split which would automatically make president Tinubu to win the election.”

Furthermore, Dr. Sufi disclosed that Jonathan’s candidacy would be appealing to the electorates, especially the conservative politicians due to his style of politics:

“Many people find him appealing because of his mild personality and his non involvement in a do-or-die politics. Definitely, that would boost his chances.”

The analyst noted that people’s perception of Azikiwe Jonathan since his rumored candidacy has been the ‘wait-and-see’ strategy:

“Well, there are a lot of uncertainties in the forthcoming presidential election, but since the rumor about his candidacy, people have adopted the ‘wait-and-see’ strategy to see under which platform he will contest, his running mate, and among other factors.”

In an engagement with another seasoned analyst, Nasiru Danjuma Yunusa, he, like Dr. Sufi, was of the opinion that Jonathan would definitely enjoy the support of other regions aside his:

“Yes, he would attract supports from other regions beyond the South South.”

In his response to Good luck Jonathan’s candidacy affecting the chances of the opposition coalition against Tinubu, Mr. Nasir buttressed thus below:

“Yes, he would affect their chances against Tinubu, except that they adopt him as the sole candidate, the race would be unhindered for the incumbent president.”

The analyst also noted that his role in peace building across the country and beyond is another element that would add to his chances of coming out appealing to the Nigerian populace.

But then, Mr. Nasir remarked that Nigerians should not expect anything different, as he would not do anything different from the present administration:

“Though, Nigerians should not expect any better treatment if he decides to contest and then win eventually because, there’s nothing he can do differently.”

Voices From The Street Of Nigeria

Emmanuel Anuku, a Lagos State resident, recalled that one of Jonathan’s weaknesses was the exacerbated nature of corruption during his administration:

“It was during his administration we heard of numerous cases of money laundering. Though it has been happening since the history of Nigeria, but his was too much.”

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When asked if Jonathan’s candidacy would jeopardize Peter Obi’s chances of winning the election in the next presidential election, Emmanuel responded that it will considering the fact that they are from the south region:

“To be accurate, his candidacy would truncate Peter Obi’s chances because the supporters of the later from the south south region who voted for him during the 2023 election will not again do that if their brother is in the race.”

He continued, “Nigerians have been yearning for Jonathan’s days in the office as the president considering his policies targeted towards livelihood which went extinct immediately Buhari took over. So, his decision to come back will be a setback for Obi. But if they decide to go consensus wise, with Good luck Jonathan stepping down for or supporting Peter Obi, such unity will give Obi the win.”

Taking into cognizance the administration of former president Jonathan, AbdulMajid Bello, a Kogite who resides in Zaria, Kaduna State, also noted that the former president faulted so badly in the security architecture of the country:

“The economy was actually stable during the administration of former president Jonathan. Food prices were stable unlike the current administration that everything has gone bad.”

“But, his major weaknesses were high rate of corruption and insurgency which made Nigerians to vote him out,” he added.

Mr. Bello also pointed out that with the system of electioneering manipulations in the country at the moment, Jonathan doesn’t have any chance of winning if he should contest. On that note, he was asked if he will vote for the former president if the rumor turns out to be true and he responded, with affirmation:

“I will definitely vote for him.”

The respondent also posited that Ebele Jonathan has the support of the north more than Obi if he decides to contest. Buttressing further to express how strong Jonathan’s candidacy would be, he predictably assured that the votes from the south would be shared equally between the two.

Interacting with another respondent, Nazir Kashim, also a Kogite but Abuja based, he applauded the former president deducing from his managerial style of the nation’s economy during his tenure:

“Good luck Jonathan actually managed the economy very well during his tenure. The level of poverty then was very low compared to now which is very bad.”

He continued, “But the issue of insecurity birthed by the Boko Haram insurgency that almost wiped out Borno State gave his administration a serious blow which made it easy for the APC to come into power.”

Mr. Nazir, while noting the achievements and setbacks of the former president, scored him 6/10.

When asked if he would cast his vote for Jonathan if he decides to contest in the forthcoming presidential election, Mr. Nazir dejectedly answered ‘No’:

“No, I won’t vote him!”

He remarked that Ebele Jonathan is politically weak, and too holy to be at the helm of affairs of this country; hence his reason why he would not cast his vote for him.

Abubakar Mohammed Kaffe, an indigene of Sokoto State, recalled and also extolled the former president on how he showed concern for welfarism and stable economy while in office while, at the same time, outlining his shortcomings:

“He actually boost the economy and showed concern for welfarism.”

“Basic needs for livelihood were subsidized during his tenure,” he continued.

“But just like the human being that we are, he faulted in some areas of which insecurity topped the list”

On his choice of casting his vote for the former president if he decides to run for the office again, Mr. Kaffe sat on the fence:

“It depends.”

When pressed to come out clear, he responded that the future is pregnant, and no one knows what might come as regards his decision to contest or not. And also for the fact that there are other contestants warming up for the moment to come, his choice of who to vote for remains undecided for now.

Interestingly, a Niger State indigene, Mahmoud Kudu Baba, while responding to the conversation, objected vehemently, the claim that the former president has made up his mind to contest again:

“It’s a blatant lie, and a propaganda obviously to fidget the opposition coalition.”

He claimed that it’s the handiwork of the mischievous players in the PDP camp who want to truncate the coalition’s triumph in the forthcoming election.

“Assuming it’s true, and he later contest, he will not win. Nigerians would not suddenly develop amnesia as to how he piloted the affairs of this country during his tenure because he conceded defeat in 2015.”

The potential re-entry of Goodluck Jonathan into Nigeria’s presidential race is more than just a political storyline; it is a pivotal variable in an already complex equation. While his esteemed international reputation as a peacemaker and his perceived gentle demeanor hold a unique appeal across regional divides, his candidacy ultimately presents a double-edged sword. On one hand, it embodies a promise of unity and non-combative politics. On the other, it threatens to fracture the opposition and inadvertently pave an easier path for the incumbent’s re-election.

The analyses of Dr. Sufi and Mr. Nasir converge on a critical point: Jonathan’s impact is entirely contingent on the strategic cohesion or lack thereof among the opposition parties. The prevailing “wait-and-see” attitude among the electorate underscores that his intentions alone are not enough; the platform, the alliances, and the running mate will ultimately define his viability.

Therefore, the question remains unanswered. Will Goodluck Jonathan be the catalyst that unites a fractured opposition, or will he become the spoiler who splits the vote? For now, the nation watches and waits, as the gentleman peacemaker from Otuoke holds the cards that could redefine the 2025 political showdown.

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NCOS Inaugurates Parole System in Nigeria, Releases First Batch in Abia.

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7 hours ago

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June 16, 2026

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS) says it achieved a major milestone in the implementation of the Service Act, 2019, with the successful release of 10 Parolees under the parole provisions of the Act.

The NCoS made this known in a statement in Abuja on Monday, by the service Public Relations Officer, CSC Jane Osuji.

Osuji said the historic event which took place at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Umuahia, marked the first practical application of the parole system in Nigeria.

She also said that it represented a significant advancement in the service’s ongoing correctional reforms aimed at promoting rehabilitation, reintegration, restorative justice, and custodial decongestion.

She described the success as the beginning of a new phase in the evolution of correctional administration in Nigeria and reinforced the correctional service’s commitment to a humane, rehabilitation-driven, and community-focused correctional system.

Osuji said the ten freed parolees were drawn from the Medium Security Custodial Centres in Aba and Umuahia, as well as the Custodial Centre, Arochukwu.

She added that the parolees received empowerment and reintegration support packages to facilitate their successful reintegration into society.

According to her, the packages include sewing machines, vocational tools, livelihood support items through the partnership of PRAWA, IDEA, and ROLAC, with financial assistance to support their transportation and resettlement.

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She quoted the Controller General of Corrections (CGC), Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, represented by the Zonal Coordinator, ACG Ngozi Okeke, as describing the occasion as a defining moment in Nigeria’s correctional history.

Nwakuche said that it was a major step towards the full implementation of the transformative provisions of the Nigerian Correctional Service Act, 2019.

According to him, parole is a globally recognised correctional mechanism that enables carefully selected and deserving inmates to gradually reintegrate into society under supervision while maintaining public safety and accountability.

”The successful implementation of parole demonstrates the service’s commitment to balancing justice with rehabilitation, and reflects the Federal Government’s resolve to adopt modern and progressive correctional practices.

”The commencement of parole administration in Nigeria is expected to contribute significantly to the reduction of recidivism, enhance offender rehabilitation, strengthen community reintegration, and decongestion of custodial facilities across the country”.

The CGC commended the Abia Command, Chairman and members of the Abia Parole Board, the Judiciary, and all criminal justice stakeholders for pioneering the implementation of the parole system.

He acknowledged the Prisoners Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA), the International IDEA Programme, the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (ROLAC), and other NGOs for their support.

The controller also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders, employers, civil society organisations, and members of the public to embrace and support the reintegration of parolees and other ex-offenders.

”The successful reintegration remains a collective responsibility and is essential to reducing re-offending, strengthening public safety, and building safer communities,” he said.

Earlier, the Controller of Corrections, in Abia, CC Ifeoma Nwanyanwu, described the event as a practical demonstration of the service’s commitment to rehabilitation-focused corrections.

Similarly, the Chairman of the state parole board, Justice Obisike Oji, explained that parole was not an act of pardon or clemency.

He described it as a structured correctional measure designed to facilitate the supervised reintegration of deserving inmates into society.

He urged the beneficiaries to remain law-abiding and make productive contributions to their communities.

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You Are Playing With Fire— ADC Reacts to Deregistration Ruling, Warns Government Agents

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7 hours ago

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June 16, 2026

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By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has rejected a Federal High Court judgment that could lead to its removal from the ballot, issuing a stark warning to government agents that they are playing with fire and courting anarchy.

In a statement released shortly after the court ruling, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, accused the judiciary of being weaponised by the ruling party to ensure President Bola Tinubu secures a second term by any means necessary.

The judgment, reportedly delivered by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, came in a case filed by the so-called National Forum of Former Legislators seeking the deregistration of the ADC and four other political parties ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

The ADC argued that Justice Lifu ignored a subsisting stay of proceedings order issued by the Court of Appeal on May 22, 2026, describing the judge’s conduct as contemptuous and a violation of all known judicial traditions.

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The party further noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) — the only constitutional body empowered to register or deregister political parties — had filed a counter-affidavit stating that the ADC had not violated any registration requirements or failed any electoral-performance threshold.

“We are deeply alarmed by this judgment,” Abdullahi said. This stands in direct conflict with constitutional principles and all known judicial processes and procedures.

The ADC alleged that the case has been championed directly by individuals working with the President’s Chief of Staff and pointed to the Attorney-General of the Federation’s decision to join the matter as a plaintiff — a move the party called an absurdity.

“We are therefore left in no doubt that this latest development is a continuation of the ruling party’s persistent efforts to undermine the opposition,” the statement read.

The party noted the curious timing of the ruling, coming after the ADC had already concluded its primaries and is fielding candidates for all positions, including the presidency.

The ADC warned that eliminating a major opposition party through “judicial manoeuvring” would have severe consequences.

“Any attempt to eliminate the country’s major opposition party through judicial manoeuvring, thereby sabotaging the political aspirations of hundreds of its candidates, is a direct invitation to anarchy,” Abdullahi said.

“We consider this ruling reckless, provocative, and even incendiary. Those who believe they can manipulate institutions of state to narrow the democratic space must understand that they are playing with forces far greater than partisan interests.”

The party vowed to challenge the ruling through all lawful means while petitioning the National Judicial Council over what it called the judicial rascality demonstrated by Justice Lifu.

Despite the fiery rhetoric, the ADC urged its members, candidates, and supporters to remain calm, vigilant, and steadfast.

“Whatever it takes, the ADC will be on the ballot so long as the 2027 election is to hold,” the statement concluded.

The party warned that responsibility for any resulting tension or crisis would rest squarely with those who are pursuing this dangerous and illegitimate path.

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Kano Unveils Digital Multimedia Department, PR Directors’ Forum

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17 hours ago

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June 16, 2026

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The Kano State Government has launched a Digital Multimedia Department under the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs as part of efforts to modernize government communication, improve transparency, and strengthen public engagement through digital platforms.

The Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, announced the development during an unveiling and inauguration ceremony held on Monday at the Ministry’s headquarters within the Audu Bako Secretariat in Kano.

Speaking at the event, Waiya described the establishment of the Department as a significant institutional reform designed to bridge communication gaps between the government and citizens in an era increasingly driven by digital technology.

He explained that the creation of the Department followed extensive consultations and institutional assessments, which identified the need for a dedicated structure capable of effectively documenting government programmes, publicizing achievements, disseminating policies, and countering misinformation through credible and timely communication.

According to the Commissioner, modern governance requires a robust digital communication infrastructure to ensure that government information reaches citizens efficiently and accurately.

“The Digital Multimedia Department represents our response to the growing demand for modern, efficient and professional government communication. It will ensure that the voice of government remains visible, accessible and authoritative across all communication platforms,” Waiya stated.

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He noted that the Department would function as the central hub for content creation, digital engagement, online publishing, documentation of government activities, and strategic media management across the state.

Waiya further commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for approving the establishment of the Department, describing the move as a reflection of the administration’s commitment to responsive governance and effective public communication under its Kano First Agenda.

The event also featured the inauguration of the Forum of Directors of Public Enlightenment and Public Relations Officers, bringing together communication heads from Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) across the state.

The Commissioner said the Forum was established to enhance coordination among communication officers, encourage professional collaboration, facilitate information sharing, and ensure strategic alignment in the dissemination of government policies and programmes.

As part of efforts to support the newly inaugurated Forum, Waiya announced a donation of N1 million to strengthen its operations and enable it to effectively carry out its mandate.

In separate goodwill messages, communication experts and media stakeholders applauded the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that would strengthen the state’s information management system and improve public access to government activities.

Among those who spoke at the event were Professor Nura Ibrahim, Associate Professor Hassan Alhaji Ya’u, Dr. Saminu Umar Rigiyar Zaki of the Faculty of Communication at Bayero University Kano, Chairman of the Heads of Media Organizations Forum, Ado Sa’idu Warawa, Vice Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Mustapha Gambo, and the Chairman of the Forum of Directors of Public Enlightenment and Public Relations Officers.

The speakers commended both the Commissioner and the Kano State Government for establishing the Digital Multimedia Department, noting that the initiative would significantly enhance the state’s digital communication strategy, improve information dissemination, and foster stronger engagement between government institutions and the public.

The launch marks a major step in Kano State’s efforts to adapt to evolving communication trends and leverage digital technology to promote transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance

The Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs Director of Special Duties Sani Abba Yola signed the statement

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