Human rights lawyer and activist, Deji Adeyanju, has advised former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan against returning to active presidential politics ahead of the 2027 general election.
In an open letter addressed to Jonathan, Adeyanju expressed concern over growing speculation linking the former president to a possible presidential bid on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to him, Nigeria’s political environment remains fragile, while the PDP is currently grappling with internal divisions that could make any presidential ambition difficult and potentially damaging to Jonathan’s legacy.
Adeyanju noted that Jonathan continues to enjoy significant respect both within Nigeria and internationally, arguing that another presidential contest could expose him to unnecessary political controversies.
“As someone with your global standing and the respect you continue to command both at home and abroad, I worry that subjecting yourself to the roughness of another electoral contest at this moment may not serve your legacy well,” he wrote.
The activist further stated that beyond the outcome of any election, the process itself could undermine the statesmanlike image Jonathan has built since leaving office in 2015.
He urged the former president to continue serving as an elder statesman whose influence is felt through counsel, diplomacy, and democratic advocacy rather than partisan politics.
“For these reasons, 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 added.
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