Most Politicians in Nigeria are betrayals – Jonathan speaks amid calls to contest 2027 elections
Most Politicians in Nigeria are betrayals – Jonathan speaks amid calls to contest 2027 elections
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reignited debate about the treacherous nature of Nigerian politics, a reflection that comes as fresh calls mount for him to contest the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking in Benin, Edo State, at the 70th birthday celebration of his former Chief of Staff, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe, Jonathan recalled the betrayals he faced during his 2015 re-election bid, which ended in defeat.
His remarks come on the heels of mounting appeals for his return, with groups and individuals across the country urging him to enter the race. Just days ago, a movement under the banner Bring Back Our Goodluck convened in Borno State to push for his candidacy.
Similarly, former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido and other political figures have openly described him as the strongest choice for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
At the event, Jonathan described politics as a game of betrayal, lamenting the unreliability of many politicians.
He, however, praised Oghiadomhe as a rare ally “who will take a bullet” for him, underscoring his distrust of a political class now rallying around his possible return.
His reflections raise fresh questions: Are some of the very forces that undermined his 2015 campaign now seeking his leadership for their own advantage? And given his cautious tone, is Jonathan himself reluctant to re-enter an arena where loyalty is fleeting?
For many Nigerians, Jonathan’s concession in 2015 remains his defining legacy, cementing his image as a statesman. That reputation is now a rallying point for those promoting him as a unifying figure for 2027.
Yet his latest comments also reveal the personal toll of that legacy and the painful memories of disloyalty from within his own ranks.
Oghiadomhe served as Jonathan’s Chief of Staff between 2010 and 2014.
The event drew several dignitaries, including Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Prof. Izia Ize-Iyamu, former Governors Lucky Igbinedion, Oserheimen Osunbor and Ibrahim Dankwambo, as well as Chief Tom Ikimi and Chief Mike Ozekhome (SAN).
