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