A fresh swirl of political intrigue has gripped Nigeria’s political space as posters urging former President Goodluck Jonathan to run in 2027 have surfaced across Kano streets and flooded social media platforms.
The eye-catching banners, some boldly tagging him “our Messiah,” have stirred memories of previous unsolicited endorsements and rekindled talks of a political comeback.
One viral poster goes a step further, teasing a Jonathan-Kwankwaso 2027 ticket, igniting theories of an unlikely alliance and reigniting speculation about a possible political recalibration ahead of the next general elections.
Déjà Vu With a 2027 Twist
The campaign visuals are reportedly backed by a group known as Team New Nigeria (TNN), whose name appears boldly on the designs. The group’s intentions remain ambiguous—whether a symbolic expression of nostalgia for Jonathan’s presidency or a strategic move to test the political waters remains to be seen.
Political observers are split. Some dismiss it as a grassroots stunt, pointing to similar unsolicited movements in 2022 that fizzled out when Jonathan declined interest. Others argue it may reflect a growing vacuum in political leadership and an electorate still yearning for the perceived stability and civility of his administration.
Jonathan Holds His Silence—Again
As buzz builds, Jonathan has yet to issue any comment, maintaining the same distance he adopted during the last round of speculation in 2022. Then, too, the former leader—alongside his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan—repeatedly denied involvement, even as groups rallied for his return.
His party affiliation also remains a foggy detail, with his past flirtation with the APC and foundation within the PDP further complicating any potential comeback narrative.
Why This Is More Than Just Poster Politics
Nostalgia is gaining political capital: In the absence of clear 2027 frontrunners, past leaders may increasingly be floated as stabilizing alternatives.
Strategic location matters: That Kano—a political battleground—is the launchpad for these posters is no accident. The city has historically influenced northern sentiment and national swings.
Silence is political currency: Jonathan’s refusal to address the rumors keeps him at the center of conversation, without committing to any move.
What to Watch Moving Forward
Will Jonathan eventually speak? His endorsement or rejection of the movement will shift the conversation decisively.
How will the PDP react? With the party still licking its 2023 wounds, a Jonathan revival may bring hope or deepen internal rifts.
Can TNN transition from symbolism to structure? If they formally register with INEC, this could be more than just poster play.
For now, the posters speak loudly, while Jonathan remains quiet, letting Nigeria speculate on what may—or may not—come in 2027.
