“GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN’S return isn’t just a contest, it’s a verdict on failed promises. If the threats are any guide, the real “dismal record” is staring back from Aso Rock”.
BY UMOGBAI AUGUSTINE
The recent outburst from Bayo Onanuga, spokesman for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, threatening court action against former President Goodluck Jonathan over his rumoured 2027 bid, reeks of desperation.
Professor Jerry Gana’s endorsement of GEJ’s potential return has clearly rattled the corridors of power why else the fiery rhetoric about “dismal records” when the real fear seems to be a stark reminder of what competent leadership looks like?
As Nigerians grapple with biting hardships, GEJ’s shadow looms large, forcing an uncomfortable mirror to the present. If his tenure was so abysmal, why the panic?
Perhaps it’s because the numbers don’t lie: the economy he left was a powerhouse compared to today’s fragility.
Here’s a quick juxtaposition of key economic strengths at GEJ’s exit in 2015 versus September 2025:
GDP Growth: Averaged 6.3% annually under GEJ (2010-2014), peaking at robust expansion that made Nigeria Africa’s largest economy; now, it’s limping at 4.23% in Q2 2025, with annual projections barely hitting 3.5% amid persistent stagnation.
Inflation Rate: A manageable 9.01% in 2015, keeping living costs in check; today, it’s a punishing 20.12% (August 2025), eroding savings and fueling food riots as prices soar unchecked.
Exchange Rate (Naira to USD): Stable at N199/$ in 2015, shielding imports and investor confidence; devalued to N1,485/$ by late September 2025, triggering a cost of living crisis and capital flight.
Nominal GDP (USD): A hefty $493 billion in 2015, reflecting global heft; shrunk to $188 billion in Q2 2025 due to devaluation, dropping Nigeria below South Africa in rankings and slashing per capita income.
Unemployment Rate: Officially 9% in 2015, with youth opportunities via programs like YouWiN; now “officially” 4.3% (2025), but IMF estimates peg it at 22.6% under new metrics, masking massive underemployment and youth despair.
Foreign Reserves: $29 billion in 2015, a solid buffer; climbed to $42 billion by September 2025, yet undermined by rampant debt (now 52.5% of GDP vs. 20% then) and inability to stem naira bleed.
GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN’S return isn’t just a contest, it’s a verdict on failed promises. If the threats are any guide, the real “dismal record” is staring back from Aso Rock.
Nigerians deserve better than bluster; they deserve results.
