Fred Agbedi
Former President Goodluck Jonathan may once again become a major force in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, according to House of Representatives member Fred Agbedi.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Agbedi said Jonathan’s possible return to the presidential race under the banner of the Peoples Democratic Party could significantly alter the country’s political equation. He described the former president as a more experienced and better-prepared politician compared to his previous time in office.
According to Agbedi, Jonathan’s influence within Nigeria’s political space has remained strong despite leaving power in 2015. He noted that a comeback bid by the former president could spark fresh alliances, defections, and strategic realignments among political actors across the country.
The lawmaker also weighed in on the controversy surrounding Jonathan’s eligibility to contest in 2027. He insisted that only the courts have the constitutional authority to determine the issue, not the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Agbedi stated that INEC cannot independently decide whether Jonathan is qualified to run, stressing that the judiciary remains the final authority in interpreting electoral laws and constitutional provisions relating to presidential eligibility.
The comments come amid growing political discussions and speculations ahead of the 2027 elections, with Jonathan’s name repeatedly surfacing in conversations about possible presidential contenders. Political analysts believe his entry into the race could reshape the balance of power within the PDP and force the ruling All Progressives Congress to review its political calculations.
At the same time, legal debates over Jonathan’s eligibility continue to generate reactions within the political and legal communities. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana recently warned that conflicting court judgments on the matter could create uncertainty in the electoral process.
Within the opposition camp, Atiku Abubakar is also reportedly gathering momentum ahead of the elections, especially within the African Democratic Congress, further highlighting the growing intensity of early political maneuvering.
For many observers, the possibility of Jonathan’s return represents a major talking point in Nigeria’s evolving political climate. Supporters view him as an experienced leader capable of stabilizing the country, while critics believe his administration’s legacy could become a central issue if he eventually joins the race.
Although Jonathan has not officially declared any intention to contest, ongoing speculation about his political future has already injected fresh energy into conversations surrounding the 2027 presidential election.
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