Jonathan better as elder statesman, must stay above partisan politics — Wike

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has dismissed speculations of a possible presidential bid by former President Goodluck Jonathan, saying the ex-leader is better positioned as a respected elder statesman than as a partisan contender.

Speaking during a media chat with journalists in Abuja, Wike said Jonathan’s global standing and international credibility would be diminished if he attempts to re-enter partisan contests, particularly against President Bola Tinubu, whom he commended for showing him support.

He added that Jonathan’s legacy as a democrat who peacefully handed over power in 2015 has made him a model across Africa, a role he said must not be compromised by partisan pressures.

“Jonathan commands global respect and must stay above partisan politics. He should not allow himself to be dragged back into contests that will affect his credibility.” Wike stated.

Speaking further, he said that Nigeria’s democracy requires respected figures like Jonathan to remain above the fray, guiding political actors with wisdom rather than competing with them for office.

Dismissing the renewed calls for former President Goodluck Jonathan to return to the presidential race, Wike accused some of those making the demand of political hypocrisy.

He argued that the same individuals urging Jonathan today were the ones who worked against him in 2015.

According to the FCT Minister, such voices lacked moral standing and were attempting to exploit Jonathan’s credibility for selfish purposes.

He maintained that Jonathan had already paid his dues and should not be dragged back into partisan struggles.

“Those who betrayed Jonathan in 2015 are the same people now calling on him to come and contest. Where is the integrity in that? Jonathan should not allow himself to be used again; he has done his part for this country,” Wike declared.

He further disclosed that despite internal crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he remains a member, but expressed concern that the party was fast losing the faith of Nigerians due to what he described as weak leadership and inconsistency.

Wike reiterated his earlier position that the PDP failed Nigerians by abandoning zoning principles, which ultimately led to the division that cost it victory in the 2023 general election. He said the party must urgently reposition itself or risk sliding into irrelevance.

“The truth is that the PDP is losing the faith of Nigerians. Our people no longer believe we have the courage to stand by our own rules. But as for me, I remain in the PDP and will not join those who abandon the house in difficult times,” he stressed.

The minister, however, noted that his loyalty to President Tinubu was borne out of gratitude and personal conviction, not party politics.

This is as he explained that the President’s recognition of his capacity made it impossible for him to undermine his government.

While dismissing insinuations that he harboured presidential aspirations.

“Tinubu has given me the opportunity to prove myself. That is not something I will betray for political ambition.

“Integrity will not allow me to run against President Tinubu, who has given me trust and confidence.” Wike said.