Nigerian Politics
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Jonathan Says He Was Betrayed in Politics Amid 2027 Speculation
Former President Goodluck Jonathan revealed on September 4, 2025, that he experienced extensive betrayal from political associates during his 2015 re-election campaign. Speaking at Chief Mike Aiyegbeni Oghiadomhe’s 70th birthday in Benin, he said:
“Politics in the Nigerian standard is about betrayals. I have witnessed a lot of betrayal during the 2015 election.”
“You will find it difficult to see somebody who says the same thing in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening.” Daily Post Nigeria
These remarks come amid growing speculation that Jonathan may return as a candidate for the 2027 presidential election. Political figures from within his party and beyond have reportedly urged him to enter the race, viewing him as a stabilizing figure. The Guardian NigeriaVanguard NewsDaily Post Nigeria
However, Nyesom Wike Minister of the FCT has advised against such a move, arguing that those now encouraging Jonathan’s comeback were the very people who betrayed him in 2015. Wike suggested that Jonathan preserve his respected status as an elder statesman rather than re-enter active politics. Businessday NGNigerian News Today
Meanwhile, within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leaders remain divided over a possible Jonathan candidacy. Some, particularly from the northern bloc, see him as a viable candidate who could unify the party. Others, however, cite constitutional concerns pointing to the two-term limit that might disqualify him for why he should stay out of the race. Vanguard NewsThe Guardian Nigeria
Obi Didn’t Offer Deji Money, Journalist Says
Abuja, Nigeria Renowned journalist and columnist Ike Abonyi, who brokered and attended a July 2022 meeting between Peter Obi and activist Deji Adeyanju, has denied claims that Obi offered Adeyanju money for political support.
Abonyi clarified that during the private three-hour meeting, Obi did not offer any monetary or material inducements a claim made recently by Adeyanju on social media. Abonyi called the allegation false and damaging.Vanguard News+1
He emphasized the meeting’s actual purpose was to discuss Adeyanju’s potential candidacy for the AMAC House of Representatives seat under the Labour Party—not any form of quid pro quo.Vanguard NewsLegit.ng – Nigeria news.
Abonyi expressed disappointment that Adeyanju, now a lawyer, would promote what he called a “voyage of blackmail,” urging him to uphold truth and professionalism.
Jonathan Denies Stepping Aside from 2027 Presidential Race
Abuja, Nigeria Reports that former President Goodluck Jonathan has stepped aside from the 2027 presidential race have been firmly denied by his family. On August 29, 2025, his cousin, Azibaola Robert, posted on his verified Facebook page that Jonathan never made such a statement, warning Nigerians to discard the claim as fake news (vanguardngr.com, legit.ng).
The claim originated from a Newsweek Nigeria article titled “Jonathan Rejects Pressure to Contest in 2027, Says He Won’t Be Used Against Southern Unity,” which Robert dismissed as entirely untrue. He further debunked that the “aide” quoted in the report does not exist
Although Jonathan has not officially declared a run for 2027, Azibaola clarified that he has also not ruled out the possibility. He emphasized that Jonathan resists being swayed by voices seeking to discourage his potential candidacy for their own motives.
Edo APC Stood by 2023 LGA Candidates Amid Bias Claims
Edo (Benin City) The Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarret Tenebe, has revealed that the party allowed its local government area (LGA) candidates to participate in the 2023 LGA election despite what he described as clear attempts by the then-ruling government to compromise the process. He emphasized that the decision was deliberate, aiming to build groundwork ahead of the 2024 governorship election.
Speaking at the party secretariat on August 26, 2025, Tenebe commended the candidates for their “determination, confidence, and belief in the party,” especially given the APC’s position as opposition at the time. He credited their participation with mobilizing support for Senator Monday Okpebholo, who later won the 2024 governorship race.
Tenebe stated:
“Consultations began with party leaders and we all later agreed that the party should contest that election, which was keenly contested… You campaigned vigorously for Senator Monday Okpebholo to win the governorship election in the state.”
On behalf of the former candidates, Enahoro Aikpokpo expressed that they contested under difficult conditions to keep the party alive amid intimidation and setbacks. They appealed to the party to prioritize them in upcoming LGA elections, requesting the “right of first refusal.”
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