Former Senator Shehu Sani has identified three decisions made by former President Goodluck Jonathan that he believes President Bola Tinubu or any other Nigerian president cannot replicate. Speaking in a recent interview, Sani argued that these actions contributed to Jonathan's defeat in the 2015 presidential election.
Jonathan's Three Unrepeatable Actions
According to Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the Eighth Senate, the first action was Jonathan writing to his opponent, the late President Muhammadu Buhari, requesting a nominee for the position of Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Buhari submitted a nominee, and Jonathan appointed that person. Second, Sani noted that Jonathan appointed an INEC chairman he had never met or knew anything about. Third, Sani claimed Jonathan accepted the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) before the election without scrutinizing its potential impact on his re-election bid.
Background of the 2015 Election
Jonathan, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), lost the 2015 presidential election to Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC). This defeat was historic as it marked the first time an incumbent president lost re-election in Nigeria.
Public Reactions
Nigerians have reacted strongly to Sani's comments. Emmanuel Uchechukwu defended Jonathan, stating that a president is not meant to know every appointee. Obeleye Krukrubo described Jonathan as a president with a large heart. Isen commended Jonathan for understanding the importance of a strong opposition. Opeoluwa criticized Jonathan, saying his good intentions empowered a bad outcome.
Broader Political Context
Sani's remarks come amid discussions about the 2027 elections. Meanwhile, the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has declared President Tinubu as its consensus candidate for 2027, boosting his second-term prospects.
