Sule Lamido Warns Jonathan Against 2027 Politics, Calls Supporters ‘Desperate’

As political alignments and behind-the-scenes negotiations continue to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, former Jigawa State Governor and founding member of the Peoples Democratic Party, Sule Lamido, has cautioned former President Goodluck Jonathan against returning to partisan politics.

Lamido’s remarks come amid growing calls from several political stakeholders and support groups urging Jonathan to re-enter active politics and contest a major office in 2027. However, the former governor described the renewed appeals as unnecessary, politically motivated, and rooted more in desperation than in any genuine national agenda.

In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday, Lamido argued that Jonathan has already attained a unique and highly respected status both within Nigeria and internationally, warning that participating in the current political climate could damage the dignity and reputation he has built over the years.

According to Lamido, Jonathan now belongs to a select class of globally respected former leaders whose influence should transcend everyday political battles and partisan rivalries.

“It is unfair and ill-opportune to drag his person into the current murky political arena populated by unserious, self-seeking and self-serving characters,” Lamido stated.

The PDP chieftain maintained that Jonathan has moved beyond the phase of seeking elective office and should instead continue to play the role of a statesman and elder national figure. He stressed that former presidents are expected to serve as symbols of unity, stability, and democratic maturity rather than becoming entangled in divisive political contests.

Lamido further lamented what he described as the deteriorating condition of Nigeria’s political environment, accusing many political actors and parties of lacking clear ideology, national direction, or commitment to genuine governance reforms.

According to him, many of the ongoing political movements and alliances ahead of 2027 are largely driven by personal ambition and the quest for power, rather than a sincere desire to address the country’s worsening economic and social challenges.

He argued that the fresh calls for Jonathan’s return should not be mistaken for a carefully thought-out political strategy, insisting instead that they reflect widespread public frustration and disappointment with the current state of the nation.

“The call for President Jonathan to hop into the political arena, no matter how well-intentioned, stems from the helplessness and hopelessness Nigeria has found itself in,” Lamido wrote.

The former governor described the pressure being mounted on Jonathan as a “desperation call,” saying it symbolizes the anxiety and uncertainty many Nigerians feel over the country’s political and economic future.

Lamido also warned Jonathan against yielding to what he called “ego-caressing” appeals from politicians and supporters who may simply be seeking to benefit from the former president’s popularity and public goodwill.

“While the call is appreciated, it is a desperation call lacking in any depth beyond being a ventilator of frustration,” he added.

He emphasized that Jonathan’s image as a peaceful democratic leader, especially after conceding defeat in the 2015 presidential election, has earned him significant respect across Africa and the international community. Lamido suggested that such a legacy should be protected carefully rather than exposed to the uncertainties and hostility of contemporary Nigerian politics.

Jonathan has in recent months repeatedly been linked with possible political permutations ahead of 2027, with some groups reportedly encouraging him to consider another presidential bid amid growing dissatisfaction with the country’s direction. Although the former president has not publicly declared any intention to contest, discussions surrounding his political future have continued to generate debate within political circles.

Lamido concluded by ins⁶isting that Jonathan remains an important national figure whose contributions to democracy and nation-building should continue from a statesman’s position rather than through direct involvement in electoral politics.

He urged political actors to focus on rebuilding credible institutions, strengthening political parties, and offering Nigerians practical solutions instead of relying on former leaders as rescue figures ahead of another election cycle.