In response to widespread speculation about former President Goodluck Jonathan’s potential run for the 2027 presidential election, the Nigerian Presidency has clarified that any disputes regarding his eligibility will ultimately be resolved by the courts. This statement came as political debates heat up around Jonathan's rumored ambition to re-enter the presidency race.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Tinubu, emphasized that the judicial system is the proper venue for deciding Jonathan's fate. Onanuga pointed out that constitutional provisions governing presidential tenure and eligibility will guide the courts in making a legal determination.
Jonathan, who served as president from 2010 after completing the late President Musa Yar’Adua’s term and then won a full term in 2011, faces questions over the 1999 Constitution’s Section 137(3), which some interpret as barring anyone who has served two terms from seeking a third. However, legal experts have weighed in, noting that Jonathan’s initial partial term does not count as a full term under the constitution, potentially making him eligible to contest again.
Despite the political noise, no formal announcement has come from Jonathan himself regarding his presidential ambitions. His media team has also remained silent on the matter.
The special adviser highlighted that the judiciary has previously ruled in Jonathan’s favor, affirming his eligibility in court cases linked to the 2023 elections. Thus, the Presidency urges all parties to respect the judicial process and await legal rulings rather than engage in premature political attacks.
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, this legal debate underscores the complex interplay of constitutional law and politics, suggesting that the ultimate resolution of Jonathan’s candidacy will be a matter for Nigeria’s courts rather than political speculation.