News Editor
By Hon. Dahiru Yusuf Yabo
Political Strategist, Former Commissioner – Sokoto State
Publisher, Yabo International Magazine
Unsolicited Advice or Calculated Mischief?
The recent public commentary by Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN) and Prof. Chidi Odinkalu regarding the potential 2027 candidacy of Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan is not only legally misplaced but politically mischievous. Their unprovoked intervention into what is clearly a constitutional non-issue exposes more about their political anxiety than any genuine legal concern.
Their argument—that Jonathan’s swearing-in in 2010 and 2011 disqualifies him from running again—is not only intellectually weak, but has long been settled by judicial precedent and constitutional clarity.
The Law Is Clear, and So Are the Courts
Jonathan’s eligibility has been tested in the courts—not in WhatsApp groups or media op-eds. In 2021, the Federal High Court sitting in Yenagoa ruled clearly that Jonathan remains constitutionally qualified to contest again if he so wishes. The ruling clarified that he did not breach the constitutional limit of two terms, as he only completed one year and eleven months of President Yar’Adua’s term, and then won a single term (2011–2015)
The Fourth Alteration No. 16 (2018), which disqualifies vice presidents who complete more than two years of a principal’s tenure from running twice, cannot be applied retroactively. It came into effect after Jonathan had left office, and no law—whether by act or amendment—can criminalize or disqualify retrospectively under Section 4(2) of the Constitution.
More Cerebral Minds Already at Work
As Jonathan’s brother, legal practitioner, and former civil liberties activist, Azibaola Robert, aptly noted—Dr. Jonathan is surrounded by some of the most experienced and cerebral Senior Advocates of Nigeria. If legal clarity were a concern, the former President would not rely on public legal gymnastics or media-driven briefs.
It is presumptuous of Keyamo and Odinkalu—both active political voices—to claim legal concern when their real interest is to shape the narrative, delegitimize Jonathan’s rising momentum, and protect existing political establishments from a credible national alternative.
The Jonathan Candidacy: Nation First, Not Ego
What truly frightens these critics is not Jonathan’s legal eligibility—but the broad national appeal he retains. In a deeply fractured Nigeria, Jonathan represents humility, balance, and post-election peacebuilding—qualities sorely missing in today’s leadership.
His potential return is not born of desperation, but of public demand—one backed by a powerful moral argument for equity, zonal rotation, and transitional stability.
Let the Voters Decide, Not Political Gatekeepers
The 2027 elections should be a contest of ideas, vision, and proven leadership, not legal ambush or media trials. If Jonathan chooses to run, it is his right—and it is the electorate’s duty to decide.
No gatekeeper, no matter how loud, can override the voice of a sovereign people.
Hon. Dahiru Yusuf Yabo
Political Strategist & Former Commissioner, Sokoto State
Coalition Advocate, Jonathan Campaign Organization (JCO)
Email: [email protected] 31st August 2025
