Nigeria 2027: Tinubu’s team attacks Jonathan amid political unease

Nigeria 2027: Tinubu’s Team Attacks Jonathan Amid Political Unease

As Nigeria begins to stir with early political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 presidential elections, tensions have flared between the camp of incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and that of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The friction was ignited by a blistering critique issued by Tinubu’s team, targeting Jonathan’s legacy and performance during his time in office. This move has been widely interpreted as a strategic attempt to preemptively weaken any potential challenge from Jonathan, whose name has resurfaced in political circles as a possible contender.

The presidency’s statement, delivered by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, described Jonathan’s administration as “disastrous,” accusing it of lacking a coherent economic agenda and engaging in frivolous spending that allegedly left the country in economic distress. Onanuga’s remarks were not merely retrospective; they were also forward-looking, challenging Jonathan to enter the 2027 race if he dares, while simultaneously casting doubt on his constitutional eligibility. Jonathan was sworn in twice, first in 2010 to complete the term of the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and again in 2011 after winning the election. Tinubu’s camp argues that this dual swearing-in could legally bar him from seeking a third term, a matter they suggest will be tested in court if he chooses to run.

The timing and tone of the attack reveal deeper political unease within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Analysts suggest that Tinubu’s team is reacting to growing momentum behind the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition, which is reportedly courting Jonathan as a unifying figure.

The ADC’s rise, coupled with efforts by opposition figures like Jerry Gana to draft Jonathan into the race, has prompted the presidency to go on the offensive. The strategy appears to be twofold: discredit Jonathan’s past to deter his future candidacy, and shift public discourse away from current economic and governance challenges under Tinubu’s leadership.

Despite the presidency’s aggressive posture, Jonathan has not publicly declared any intention to run.

However, the mere speculation of his return has been enough to trigger a wave of political calculations and realignments.

The opposition, including camps loyal to Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, are reportedly exploring alliances to mount a formidable challenge to Tinubu.

This early politicking underscores the fragility of Nigeria’s political landscape, where past leaders remain influential and the electorate remains deeply divided.

In essence, the attack on Jonathan is more than a critique of history, it is a signal of the battles to come. It reflects the ruling party’s anxiety over a potentially crowded and competitive field, and it sets the tone for what promises to be a contentious and high-stakes electoral season.

As the 2027 race begins to take shape, Nigerians can expect more rhetorical skirmishes, legal debates, and strategic alliances that will define the future of the nation’s democracy.