Controversial broadcaster Rufai Oseni has questioned whether former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan still has the capacity to rescue Nigeria’s struggling economy amid growing calls for him to return to power ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking during an edition of his QuickTakes programme on Arise TV, Rufai acknowledged that Jonathan has the constitutional right to contest again, but stressed that Nigerians must honestly assess whether the former president can effectively handle the country’s current economic challenges.
“Dear President Jonathan, do you really, really think you have what it takes to be able to revamp the ailing economy?” Rufai asked during the broadcast.
The broadcaster noted that many of the political figures now encouraging Jonathan to contest were among those who strongly criticised his administration before the 2015 presidential election.
According to him, it raises questions about why the former president was once considered unfit to lead the country, yet is now being projected as a possible solution to Nigeria’s current problems.
Rufai also referenced political speculations suggesting that Jonathan’s possible return could weaken the support base of Peter Obi if he eventually joins the 2027 race.
He claimed some political observers believe influential figures may be considering Jonathan as a strategy to divide Obi’s supporters due to the former president’s enduring popularity among many Nigerians.
The journalist further highlighted Nigeria’s worsening economic and social realities, including forex instability, rising poverty, corruption, and lingering issues in the oil sector.
“An economy where over 63% of people live in abject poverty. An economy that needs a lot of vigour. An economy that needs to fight corruption,” Rufai stated.
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He also mentioned unresolved concerns surrounding Nigeria’s refineries and the ongoing rehabilitation efforts by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.
Rufai additionally pointed to recent legal debates surrounding eligibility for individuals who have previously taken the presidential oath twice, suggesting such issues may arise if Jonathan decides to contest.
Ending his remarks, the broadcaster directly addressed the former president:
“Good luck, Ebele Jonathan. You’ve always had luck following you. Mr President, can you do it?”
