Ahead of the 2027 general elections, a quiet but growing movement is pushing for former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to re-enter active politics and vie for the presidency. Supporters of the call argue that the surge in violent crimes across the country since his departure from office in 2015 highlights the need for his return.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Although Boko Haram’s activities intensified during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, available data shows that his government significantly weakened the insurgents—so much so that many believed they were on the brink of defeat.

A Daily Post article published in March 2015 recounted how the insurgency, which escalated after 2009 and was allegedly fuelled by disgruntled political elites following the 2007 elections, became a national crisis. It noted that elements within the system undermined the government’s efforts, infiltrating the military and eroding morale.

At the time, Nigeria struggled to garner regional cooperation against the insurgents. Suicide bombings, abductions, and land seizures became rampant. However, President Jonathan took bold steps—investing in military hardware, boosting troop morale, and strengthening regional alliances. These measures, the report said, pushed Boko Haram onto the back foot, transforming the group from a formidable force into scattered irritants.

Similarly, Senator Ali Ndume from Borno recently affirmed during Senate plenary that Jonathan’s administration was close to wiping out the insurgents before external interference allegedly derailed the progress.

In contrast, insecurity in Nigeria worsened under President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure. Despite claims of defeating Boko Haram, the group remained active, while other threats like banditry and kidnapping surged. Violence by suspected Fulani herders also intensified, especially in farming communities. Reports estimate that over 63,000 people were killed during Buhari’s administration.

Critics pointed to systemic failures—such as poor education, widespread poverty, and unemployment—as root causes of the insecurity. The Buhari administration was often accused of being reactive rather than strategic.

Under President Bola Tinubu, insecurity continues to loom large. According to the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED), over 7,400 people were killed and 12,500 abducted in his first two years. More than 20 terror attacks occurred, with Benue, Borno, Niger, and other states bearing the brunt.

Regional data paints a grim picture: the North Central recorded over 2,600 deaths and 1,000 kidnappings; the Northwest followed with 2,000 deaths and 2,300 abductions. Though Tinubu’s administration has initiated tactical reforms, including leadership changes and enhanced inter-agency collaboration, critics argue that the efforts remain insufficient.

Human rights group Amnesty International claims that over 10,000 people have been killed by non-state actors under Tinubu’s watch—figures the presidency disputes.

Despite government assurances that President Tinubu is “on top of the situation,” many Nigerians remain concerned.

Supporters of Jonathan now argue that both Buhari and Tinubu failed to grasp the counter-insurgency strategies Jonathan used effectively. They believe his return could restore peace.

According to Ephraim Bitiyong Danjuma, Director General of the National Peace Initiative Group (NPIG), “We’ve tested two other leaders since Jonathan left office, and we’re convinced he was the best. Insecurity is ravaging the country, and we believe Jonathan can end it.”

Danjuma added: “Some may ask what he forgot in Aso Rock. We, at NPIG, believe he forgot a lot—especially the unfinished task of liberating Nigerians from poverty, disease, hunger, and insecurity. We urge him to return and contest in 2027 for the sake of the nation.”