The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has stated that Nigeria has moved on beyond the politics of sentiment, nostalgia, and symbolism surrounding former President Goodluck Jonathan.
The remark was made by APC spokesman Seye Oladejo in a statement on Friday amid speculations around Jonathan's possible inclusion in the 2027 presidential race.
Jonathan was defeated by the late Muhammadu Buhari in 2025 when he sought reelection, and unconfirmed reports say talks are underway to get him to contest again.
Speaking on the ex-president's political relevance, Oladejo said, "While we acknowledge the former president's role in the peaceful democratic transition of 2015, an act that rightly earned him praise at home and abroad, we must state, in clear terms, that Nigeria has since moved beyond the politics of sentiment, nostalgia, and symbolism.
"The challenges of today and the future require bold, capable, and forward-thinking leadership, not a return to the comfort of a past that was far from perfect.
"Moreover, the former president's political relevance has been complicated by his recent engagements across party lines.
"His flirtation with the APC and absence from PDP's strategic rebuilding efforts raise questions about his loyalty, clarity of vision, and political intentions.
"We believe the future of Nigeria does not lie in recycled leadership but in visionary governance rooted in integrity, innovation, and resilience.
"Former President Jonathan remains a respected elder statesman. His legacy as a peaceful democrat is assured. But legacies are not manifestoes, and nostalgia is not governance.
"We urge Nigerians to reject emotional shortcuts and stay focused on the need for capable, accountable and transformative leadership.
"As 2027 approaches, let us not reach backwards in desperation, but move forward with courage and clarity," he added.