As Nigeria approaches the 2027 election cycle, political realignment are already taking shape. Speculation is rife about the possibility of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso rejoining the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling potential shifts in the nation’s political landscape.
The APC was founded on the need to wrest power from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) after the latter dominated Nigeria’s political scene for 16 years, from 1999 to 2015. The PDP, once confident in its seemingly unshakable grip on power, underestimated Nigerians’ political awareness and the dynamics of governance.
Opposition parties, particularly in states like Lagos and later Kano when Kwankwaso dumped PDP and joined APC as the sitting Governor of Kano State brightens APC’s opportunities.The APC’s leadership capitalized on the internal rifts within the PDP and strategically mobilizing their political machinery to make in road into the party’s stronghold. This culminated in the historic 2015 victory that saw the APC take control at the federal level.
However, the APC’s economic policies have led to significant challenges. The removal of petroleum subsidies and the floating of the naira caused a sharp depreciation in the currency’s value, wiping out the middle class and widening the gap between the wealthy and the impoverished. The absence of social safety nets has left millions vulnerable.
President Muhammadu Buhari’s currency redesign policy, executed within a short timeframe, exacerbated Nigeria’s cash crunch. His economic strategies, often criticized for their lack of a human-centered approach, brought severe hardships to households across the nation.
Upon assuming office in 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu immediately announced the withdrawal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira in an economy heavily reliant on imports. These decisions, in an environment already plagued by a struggling manufacturing sector and rising inflation, have deepened economic distress.
Why Goodluck Jonathan Should Return in 2027
Given the current situation, the PDP must seize this moment to reorganize, unify, and reclaim power. The ideal ticket for the 2027 election would feature former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as the presidential candidate, with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso as his running mate. This combination offers a formidable challenge to the APC and a clear pathway to victory.
Based on the current raising political temperature in the country which is getting to the highest level of Sahara desert heat scenario it will be quite normal for Kwankwaso to pinch his tent in PDP camp than the APC.
The APC’s tent is crowded with excess largage of unpardonable offences which will be a dent on Kwankwaso:s white snow shining overflowing gown of political significance
Kwankwaso political journey in 1999 started with the PDP as the Governor of Kano and it’s Minister of Defence and back to Government House as a Governor and joined APC after the merger of the opposition party which he aligned with a sitting Governor of PDP.
To all intent and purposes PDP is Kwankwaso’s natural political habitat ideologically and socially because his heart and mind belongs to the PDP in all content and character
With Jonathan and Kwankwaso on the same ticket he stands a better chance of becoming Nigeria’s President and Commander in Chief in 2031 because Jonathan will have completed his second term and the South ought to have provided the President for eight years.
Jonathan’s return would mirror the U.S. political scenario where Donald Trump, after losing to Joe Biden, staged a strong comeback. Jonathan remains a well-known and widely accepted figure in Nigerian politics. His leadership, characterized by economic stability and relative affordability of living costs, is fondly remembered by many Nigerians.
During Jonathan’s tenure, the cost of living was more manageable, security challenges were tackled head-on, and the average Nigerian experienced a higher quality of life. Many recall his administration as a period of economic stability and less hardship.
Tinubu’s Administration: A Nation in Crisis
Nearly two years into Tinubu’s presidency, his administration appears to be struggling with governance. Many Nigerians feel disillusioned, as there seems to be no clear roadmap to economic recovery. His Renewed Hope agenda was shot dead on arrival. The policy crash landed with serious negative consequences on Nigerians
A leader’s responsibility to a nation is similar to that of a father to his family. A good father ensures his household is well cared for and does not indulge in luxury while his family suffers. The same principle applies to governance—leadership should prioritize the well-being of the people above all else.
Jonathan’s Call to Action
It is time for Goodluck Jonathan to return to Aso Rock and provide Nigerians with the competent, people-oriented leadership they remember. His administration previously offered economic stability, and his return could bring back hope, progress, and prosperity.
Jonathan’s political machinery must seize this opportunity, mobilize support, and prepare for a strategic comeback. The battle for Nigeria’s future in 2027 is not just about winning an election—it is about restoring good governance, economic growth, and national prosperity.
Conclusion
Nigeria is at a crossroads, and the 2027 elections present an opportunity to reset the course of governance. A Jonathan-Kwankwaso ticket would not only be a winning combination but also a chance to bring back effective leadership and economic stability. The time to act is now!
Mahmud Shuaibu Ringim
HALIM Consulting Ltd, Kano
Email: mahmudshuaibu44@gmail.com
