Anglican Primate Urges Jonathan to Stay Away From 2027 Politics
The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has advised former President Goodluck Jonathan not to return to partisan politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Ndukuba gave the advice on Saturday during the First Session of the 13th Synod of the Diocese of Abuja held in Abuja, warning that a political comeback could affect Jonathan’s reputation and legacy as a respected statesman.
According to the cleric, Jonathan has already secured a special place in Nigeria’s democratic history, particularly for conceding defeat peacefully after the 2015 presidential election.
“We don’t want you to spoil that good name, and please, keep off for now. Let them just play it. Be the senior citizen that you should be,” Ndukuba said.
He praised the former president for the role he has continued to play across Africa since leaving office, describing him as a symbol of integrity, peace and responsible leadership.
“We thank God for your life, not only for Nigeria but for the West African region, ECOWAS and Africa,” the cleric stated.
“You are a symbol that should stand. You are a hope for our generation, showing that it is possible to lead with integrity and leave behind a worthy legacy.”
Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president between 2010 and 2015 under the Peoples Democratic Party before losing the 2015 election to former President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress.
He was widely praised at the time for conceding defeat before the official announcement of the final results, a move many believed helped prevent political tension and violence in the country.
Since leaving office, Jonathan has remained active in international diplomacy and conflict resolution, participating in election observation missions and peace mediation efforts across Africa through organisations such as Economic Community of West African States and the African Union.
Despite repeated speculation about a possible return to active politics, Ndukuba urged the former president to preserve the respect and goodwill he currently enjoys both within and outside Nigeria.
“Be the senior citizen that you should be,” the Anglican leader repeated.
