2027 Presidency: Jonathan rebukes Keyamo, Odinkalu over unsolicited advice

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has dismissed criticisms from Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo (SAN), and legal scholar, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, over his speculated 2027 presidential ambition, cautioning them to steer clear of his political choices.

Keyamo and Odinkalu had urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) not to consider Jonathan for its ticket, contending that his return would encounter legal hurdles since he had been sworn in twice as president.

But in a statement released on Monday through his brother, Azibaola Robert, Jonathan brushed aside their objections, maintaining that his eligibility was unquestionable and that he did not require unsolicited counsel.

Writing on his verified Facebook page, Robert said:

“Dear Festus Keyamo (SAN), Chidi Odinkalu (Prof.), I greet you both. For the records, three of us are lawyers. We were all pro-democracy activists in the 90s, and I was a better activist than both of you combined.

“Rule No. 1: Do not offer legal advice where none is solicited. GEJ (PDP) has numerous, more cerebral, more experienced SANs at his disposal who provide him with sound, unblemished legal advice.

“Please note: GEJ is 100% constitutionally and legally qualified to contest, if he chooses to. If he declines the overwhelming calls to run, it will not be because he is unqualified.

“Your unsolicited legal view is irrelevant to him and will never be. Don’t waste your time. Or should I arrange a meeting so you can be properly educated on the court judgments on this matter — one of which your party, APC, was a party to?”

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Robert, however, added humorously: “This is not a confirmation that GEJ is running, though.”

Although Jonathan has yet to formally declare for 2027, his rumored ambition has already stirred debate, with opponents warning that his comeback could undermine the South’s chances of retaining the presidency.

For now, uncertainty hangs over his decision, but the early exchanges reflect a growing contest over zoning, eligibility, and succession ahead of the 2027 elections.