The Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Customs and Excise, Leke Abejide, has voiced strong confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would emerge victorious if former President Goodluck Jonathan joins the 2027 presidential race. Speaking during an interview on the Mic On Podcast hosted by journalist Seun Okinbaloye on Saturday, Abejide stated that Tinubu’s potential victory margin would be significant — winning more than 32 states across Nigeria should Jonathan declare his candidacy. Abejide, who represents Yagba East/Yagba West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency in Kogi State, dismissed any notion that Jonathan’s return to active politics would drastically change the political outcome in 2027. Speculations Over Jonathan’s Possible Return Political observers have been speculating that former President Jonathan may make a political comeback in the 2027 general elections. Jonathan previously served as Nigeria’s president for one term before losing to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2015 elections. However, Abejide issued a note of caution to those considering Jonathan’s return. He maintained that, based on his political analysis, Tinubu would still dominate the elections, potentially losing only in Anambra and Abia States while securing wins in other regions, including Ebonyi State. “My prayer is that they should run on separate political platforms,” Abejide said.“If that happens, Asiwaju will win at least 32 states. He may lose Anambra and Abia, but he will win Ebonyi and possibly surpass that 32-state mark.” Tinubu’s Popularity and Public Sentiment Speaking further, Abejide emphasized President Tinubu’s growing popularity nationwide. Drawing from his recent travels, he said: “I just returned from Kano. I was there on Wednesday and spent the night. On Thursday morning, I traveled to Kaduna by road — there was no insecurity, and the road was in excellent condition. Then, this morning, I took the train to Abuja. I can confidently say that the people are happy.” His comments reflect a perspective that improved infrastructure and relative security in certain regions are boosting Tinubu’s public image ahead of the 2027 elections.
