The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has voiced concerns over the shifting political alliances ahead of the 2027 general elections, cautioning that the potential return of former President Goodluck Jonathan to the presidential race might further weaken the opposition's prospects.
This apprehension arises amid renewed speculation that Jonathan could reconsider running for president under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), at a time when opposition parties and prominent political figures are still attempting to forge a unified front against President Bola Tinubu ahead of 2027.
According to a report from Vanguard, a senior CAN leader who spoke on condition of anonymity stated that the ongoing political maneuvers seem likely to exacerbate divisions within the opposition and alter voting patterns nationwide.
“I have never witnessed politics like this in my life. These are deliberate efforts to overheat the system,” he remarked.
The cleric noted that there are indications Jonathan might now be willing to re-enter active presidential politics, despite earlier signals that he would not contest again.
“We have also learned that Jonathan may now return under the PDP. They aim to fragment the opposition vote so that none of the contenders can secure a victory,” he added.
He explained that the entry of multiple strong contenders from various regions could split opposition support, ultimately benefiting the ruling party.
“If Jonathan takes the South-South, Peter will take the South-East. Atiku and Kwankwaso will split the North, while Tinubu will secure the South-West and some other states,” he elaborated.
The CAN leader warned that if opposition parties repeat the same pattern observed during the 2023 presidential election, they may again find it difficult to unseat the ruling party.
“If they proceed as they did in 2023, my concern is that the opposition cannot deliver. They simply cannot deliver,” he stressed.
He also expressed worry over the rising political tension and the potential for internal conflicts among opposition figures as the race toward 2027 intensifies.
“My prayer is that they do not start killing one another. They should not start killing each other because, if they do, the situation will become worse,” he said.
Further, the cleric noted that elections in Nigeria often defy political calculations and predictions.
“An election is like a pregnant woman; you cannot predict it. You just allow the will of God to be done.
“But sometimes, you cannot foresee these matters. Perhaps he has examined his calculations, and they have convinced him beyond doubt, so he has made up his mind,” he concluded.
