The All Progressives Congress (APC) Media Network has issued a stern warning against attempts to lure former President Goodluck Jonathan into contesting the 2027 presidential election. The network vehemently asserts that such a move is a calculated ploy designed to fracture the burgeoning support for President Bola Tinubu in the South-South region, potentially paving the way for a northern candidate to assume the presidency in the future. This strategic maneuver, they argue, aims to exploit Jonathan’s stature and popularity within the South-South to divide the region’s votes and weaken Tinubu’s stronghold, thereby creating an opportunity for a northern politician to capitalize on the fragmented political landscape. The APC Media Network views this as a cynical attempt to manipulate the electoral process for regional gain at the expense of national unity and stability.
The APC Media Network further posits that this calculated strategy is not only detrimental to the South-South’s political cohesion but also poses a significant risk to Jonathan’s reputation and legacy. They argue that Jonathan, having already experienced defeat as an incumbent president in 2015, is unlikely to triumph against another incumbent, especially a formidable political figure like Tinubu, whose influence and popularity are expected to grow further during his first term. Contesting the 2027 election, they warn, would expose Jonathan to another potentially humiliating defeat, jeopardizing his hard-earned international acclaim as a statesman and peacemaker, which he garnered following his gracious concession of defeat in 2015. The Network implores Jonathan to prioritize national stability and progress over personal ambition and resist the allure of a potentially damaging political gamble.
Jonathan’s decision to concede defeat in 2015 was widely lauded as a demonstration of his commitment to democratic principles and peaceful transition of power. This act cemented his image as a statesman who prioritized the nation’s well-being over personal political gain. The APC Media Network emphasizes the importance of preserving this legacy and cautions Jonathan against jeopardizing it by participating in a race they believe he has little chance of winning. They portray him as a man who has already made a significant contribution to Nigeria’s democratic development and urge him to continue playing a constructive role in promoting peace and stability, rather than engaging in a potentially divisive and ultimately futile political contest.
Underlying the APC Media Network’s argument is their unwavering confidence in President Tinubu’s political prowess and the anticipated success of his administration. They firmly believe that Tinubu’s ongoing reforms and initiatives will resonate with the Nigerian populace, solidifying his support base and guaranteeing his re-election in 2027. They contend that any attempt to challenge Tinubu’s second-term bid is destined for failure, given his growing popularity and the effectiveness of his policies. The Network paints a picture of a president whose performance will speak for itself, rendering any opposition efforts inconsequential.
The APC Media Network’s statement strongly suggests that the proponents of Jonathan’s candidacy are fully aware of his slim chances of victory against Tinubu. They accuse these individuals of pursuing a hidden agenda that prioritizes regional political maneuvering over genuine national interest. Their actions, the Network argues, are driven by a desire to destabilize the existing political order and create an opening for a northern candidate to seize power, rather than a genuine belief in Jonathan’s ability to win the presidency. The Network frames this as a cynical manipulation of Jonathan’s reputation for personal gain, ultimately undermining the democratic process.
In conclusion, the APC Media Network vehemently opposes any attempt to draft former President Goodluck Jonathan into the 2027 presidential race. They characterize such a move as a calculated strategy to weaken President Tinubu’s support base in the South-South, potentially paving the way for a northern presidency. Moreover, they caution Jonathan against risking his hard-earned reputation and legacy by participating in what they believe to be a futile political contest. They express unwavering confidence in President Tinubu’s re-election prospects and accuse those pushing for Jonathan’s candidacy of pursuing a self-serving agenda that undermines national unity and stability. The Network ultimately urges Jonathan to continue contributing to the nation’s progress as a respected statesman and peacemaker, rather than embarking on a potentially damaging political path.
