Bashir Ahmad, a former digital media aide to the Presidency, has cautioned former President Goodluck Jonathan against re-entering the political fray for the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement shared on Monday, May 11, 2026, Ahmad warned that a return to active politics could jeopardize the statesmanlike legacy Jonathan has built since leaving office in 2015.

Ahmad’s remarks come amidst intensifying rumours and growing calls from various political quarters for the former president to consider a run in the next general election. He argued that Jonathan’s current status as a global icon of democracy and a respected mediator in African conflicts is a hard-earned reputation that should be protected from the “mucky waters” of a fresh electoral contest.

The former presidential aide emphasized that Jonathan reached the pinnacle of national leadership and earned international acclaim by peacefully conceding power. According to Ahmad, returning to compete for the presidency would subject the former leader to partisan attacks and political scrutiny that could diminish the heroic image he currently enjoys among Nigerians and the international community.

While acknowledging that Jonathan remains constitutionally eligible to seek another term, Ahmad suggested that the elder statesman’s time would be better spent mentoring the next generation of leaders.

He noted that the political landscape has evolved significantly and that a comeback attempt might not yield the outcome his supporters expect, potentially ending his political career on a divisive note.

The debate over a Jonathan 2027 bid has gained traction in recent months, with some groups citing his experience and perceived calmness as necessary for the country’s current challenges.

However, critics like Ahmad maintain that his role as an unbiased father figure of the nation is far more valuable to Nigeria’s stability than a return to partisan candidacy.

As of now, former President Jonathan has not made a definitive statement regarding his intentions for 2027. He has largely focused on his international assignments and his foundation, maintaining a level of neutrality that continues to fuel speculation on both sides of the political divide.