By Luminous Jannamike
ABUJA — Political associates of former President Goodluck Jonathan have insisted that only the former president can speak authoritatively on his political future, warning against attempts by individuals to define his position ahead of the 2027 general election.
The intervention follows renewed debate over Jonathan’s political future after a recent media report quoted Jude Imagwe, a former presidential aide, as dismissing speculation about the former president’s possible return to electoral politics.
The group argued that Nigerians should rely only on verified and officially authorised communications.
The group in a statement by Sam Presto, Coordinator of The Goodies Movement, a pro-Jonathan political group, said: “Many supporters and stakeholders within the broader Jonathan political family are therefore, asking a legitimate question: was he (Imagwe) expressing a personal opinion, or was he conveying an officially authorised position?
“Only statements issued directly by him, through officially designated representatives, or via recognised communication channels should be regarded as definitive expressions of his political position.
“The media also bears a responsibility in this regard. Journalists and media organisations should exercise caution before presenting individuals as speaking for political leaders without clearly establishing the basis of their authority.
“Any statement purporting to reflect the position of a former Head of State should be accompanied by clear evidence of authorisation and current representation.
“Every endorsement, rejection, confirmation, denial, or speculation concerning his political future should be understood as the opinion of the individual expressing it, unless clearly backed by an official mandate.
“The Nigerian people deserve facts rather than assumptions, clarity rather than conjecture, and authentic representation rather than political guesswork,” he said.
