Is Jonathan the Game Changer?
When former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan pushed for the resignation of Alh Bamanga Tukur as PDP National Chairman, he had a clear goal to position Adamu Mu’azu as his preferred replacement. His strategy was simple: consolidate party unity and strengthen the PDP ahead of the 2015 general elections. However, events quickly took a different turn. Despite his lobbying, the North East Zonal Congress initially chose Musa Babayo. Jonathan had to intervene directly, appealing to the region’s governors before Mu’azu’s candidacy gained traction. At his debut appearance, Mu’azu earned the nickname “The Game Changer,” a title that ironically turned back on Jonathan himself.
The very man who was meant to rescue the party soon became the face of internal sabotage. Mu’azu’s meeting with then-opposition leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu raised suspicions. More telling was his body language on the campaign trail he refused to publicly endorse Jonathan and Vice President Namadi Sambo, instead vaguely urging voters to support “the umbrella.” For seasoned political observers, this was a dangerous sign of disloyalty.
Jonathan’s 2015 campaign was riddled with betrayals. More painful were the ones that came from within his inner circle. His political adviser at the time, Professor Rufai Alkali, failed to even cast his vote for fear of backlash from northern youths. Then there was Inspector General of Police Suleiman Abba, whose appointment Jonathan pushed through despite pressures to retain MD Abubakar who was seen as a more neutral figure. Abba later proved to be sympathetic to the opposition, a move that undermined Jonathan’s campaign from within the security apparatus. Yet after the defeat, Abba had the effrontery and temerity to come and salute Jonathan and pledged loyalty in the villa a gesture many saw as hypocritical.
Today, however, the political landscape has changed direction. In a twist of fate, Jonathan once vilified in much of the North has become a symbol of hope for many disenchanted citizens. During Buhari’s presidency, Jonathan’s legacy began to be re-evaluated. Gone were the accusations of weakness; in their place were calls from northern youths urging him to “come and save us in the name of Jisos.” Videos and posts across social media platforms, particularly TikTok, reflect this sentiment. Northerners who once rejected Jonathan’s relief materials now call him “Baba,” pleading for his return.
This resurgence in popularity is not limited to the North. In the South South and South East, he remains a beloved figure. His appeal cuts across religious and ethnic lines. To many, Jonathan embodies moderation, tolerance, and a respect for democratic values qualities many Nigerians believe are missing in current leadership. In a time where national unity and healing are desperately needed, he may present a viable bridge.
Importantly, if Jonathan were to return, the law only permits him to serve one more term. This makes him a transitional figure, offering the country a period of political cooling and stability while paving the way for the next generation. For those in the North clamouring for the presidency in 2031, a Jonathan presidency offers a strategic middle ground.
Yet, questions remain. Would his return be about national service or a personal reckoning? Would he seek to avenge those who wronged him or rise above the past? These are questions political pundits continue to debate. What is clear, however, is that Jonathan is no longer the underdog. He is a formidable player with renewed political currency.
As Nigeria inches toward another election cycle, the possibility of a Jonathan comeback cannot be dismissed. The man once changed by a game changer may now return to change the game himself. Whether this is the twist Nigeria needs or a return to a familiar script remains to be seen. One thing is certain, Jonathan is back in the conversation, and this time, he holds more aces than ever before.
Umar Sani
@UmarSanithecat
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