The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has strongly criticised ongoing calls for former President Goodluck Jonathan to return to contest the 2027 presidential election, warning that such moves could plunge the nation into political instability.
Wike made the remarks during an appearance on Politics Today, a programme aired Thursday night on Channels Television.
Wike described the push for Jonathan’s return as hypocritical and politically reckless, recalling how many of those now backing him were the same individuals who deserted him during his failed re-election campaign in 2015.
“Anyone saying Jonathan should come back just to do one term is inviting crisis. These are the same people who undermined him in 2015,” Wike said.
“Now that he’s earned global respect, they want to drag him back into political controversy.”
He dismissed the “one-term presidency” argument as a deceptive tactic, warning that such a move could disrupt Nigeria’s fragile political balance, particularly between northern and southern interests.
While acknowledging that Nigerians are experiencing economic hardship, Wike defended President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stating that the current reforms, though tough, are necessary for long-term stability.
“There’s hardship, no doubt. But efforts are being made. In Abuja, I see the projects happening every day. That shows the government is serious about development.”
Wike also took a swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who recently warned of a looming revolution due to poverty and hunger. Wike dismissed Atiku’s remarks as insincere and opportunistic.
“Atiku was Vice President for eight years. What did he do then to reduce hunger? Now he talks about revolution, it’s laughable. I don’t even read what he says anymore.”
The minister accused opposition figures of trying to weaponize the current economic climate for political gains, urging Nigerians to remain patient while reforms take root.
Despite Wike’s warnings, there have been renewed efforts within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to lure Jonathan back into the political arena.
In August, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State confirmed that the party was considering Jonathan and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, as possible presidential candidates for 2027.
“Certainly, former President Jonathan is one of the candidates we’re looking at, if he’s willing to return,” Mohammed had said, describing Jonathan as “one of the most celebrated politicians in Nigeria today.”
