Deji Adeyanju Urges Jonathan to Stay Out of 2027 Presidential Race

Human rights lawyer and political activist, Deji Adeyanju, has advised former President, , to resist growing calls for a return to active presidential politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In an open letter addressed to the former Nigerian leader, Adeyanju expressed concern over increasing speculations linking Jonathan to a possible presidential bid on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), warning that such a move could potentially affect the former president’s legacy and standing as a respected statesman.

The activist described Jonathan as a leader whose democratic credentials and commitment to peace continue to earn him admiration both within Nigeria and across the international community. He noted that his intervention was motivated by respect and goodwill rather than political opposition.

According to Adeyanju, Nigeria’s current political environment remains fragile and deeply polarized, making another presidential contest a risky venture for a leader of Jonathan’s stature. He argued that the PDP, the party under which Jonathan is reportedly being linked to a possible return, is presently grappling with internal divisions and instability that could complicate any electoral ambition.

“The growing conversations around your intended return to active presidential politics are worrying,” Adeyanju stated in the letter, adding that the process of seeking elective office in the current climate could expose the former president to avoidable controversies.

He further maintained that beyond the question of whether Jonathan could win a future election, the nature of Nigeria’s political contests could subject him to political attacks and public scrutiny capable of diminishing the statesmanlike image he has carefully built over the years.

Adeyanju urged the former president to instead embrace the role of an elder statesman whose influence transcends partisan politics. He emphasized that Jonathan’s contributions to democracy, peace-building, conflict resolution and governance across Africa have positioned him as a respected continental figure whose guidance remains valuable.

The activist said Jonathan’s legacy would be better preserved through continued service as a mentor, mediator and voice of wisdom rather than through participation in another presidential election.

“I sincerely hope you will consider stepping away from any such ambition and continue to serve in the higher role of an elder statesman on the continent whose influence is felt through guidance and wisdom, rather than electoral contest,” Adeyanju wrote.

The letter comes amid persistent political discussions in various quarters over possible alignments and permutations ahead of the 2027 presidential election. While Jonathan has not publicly declared any intention to contest the presidency, speculation about his political future continues to generate debate among political stakeholders and supporters across the country.

As preparations for the next electoral cycle gradually gather momentum, Adeyanju’s intervention adds another voice to the ongoing national conversation regarding the role former leaders should play in shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.