Former Edo State Governor and senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has dismissed growing speculation linking former President Goodluck Jonathan to the 2027 presidential race, describing the former leader as a statesman who placed Nigeria above personal ambition.
Oshiomhole made the remarks during an interview on Channels Television while reacting to ongoing political conversations suggesting that Jonathan could be persuaded to contest the presidency again in 2027.
The former governor cautioned political actors against involving Jonathan in what he described as unnecessary political speculation.
“Don’t drag my brother into that. That’s my brother who conceded defeat, who said Nigerian blood is not worth his ambition. So that’s a complete gentleman,” Oshiomhole said.
He praised Jonathan’s conduct during the 2015 presidential election, where the former president conceded defeat to former President Muhammadu Buhari even before the final results were officially announced, a move widely celebrated both locally and internationally as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to Oshiomhole, Jonathan’s decision at the time helped preserve peace and political stability in the country, setting an example of democratic maturity rarely seen across the continent.
The comments come amid renewed discussions in political circles over possible contenders for the 2027 general election.
Some political stakeholders and supporters have floated Jonathan’s name as a possible candidate, citing his experience in governance and previous leadership record.
Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015 after previously serving as vice president under the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
While the former president has not publicly declared interest in the 2027 race, conversations around his possible return have continued to gain attention within political and public spaces.
