In an interview with journalist Temidayo Akinsuyi, Afegbua said Jonathan’s decision to accept defeat and hand over power without bloodshed in 2015 elevated him into global statesmanship, opening doors for him to serve as an election observer, public speaker, and recipient of international recognition.
“Those pushing Jonathan to contest in 2027 are selfish. They want to squander the goodwill he enjoys globally. Nigerians have moved on from that era. His government was far from spectacular, which is why he lost in the first place. Bringing him back will not solve our current problems,” Afegbua stated.
He criticised Jonathan’s administration for alleged mismanagement, saying key figures like former First Lady Patience Jonathan and ex-ministers Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Diezani Alison-Madueke, and Stella Oduah “practically acted like co-presidents.” According to him, Nigerians would not want to relive that period.
Afegbua praised President Bola Tinubu for introducing “novel reforms” aimed at stabilising the economy and restoring investor confidence, insisting that governance requires “policies, firmness, and courage—not just kindness.”
Offering direct advice, he said: “Jonathan should run away from those political scavengers pushing him into a comeback. He has no structure. PDP is still fragmented, LP is in crisis, and smaller parties cannot carry such a burden. He should listen to the voice of reason and stay out of 2027.”
On national issues, Afegbua condemned activist Omoyele Sowore for describing President Tinubu as a “criminal” in a social media post, calling the remark reckless and irresponsible. He urged Sowore to respect the office of the President, stressing that only a court of law can pronounce anyone a criminal.
“You may not like the president’s face, but you must respect the office he holds. Sowore’s words were uncivilised and unbecoming of someone who claims to fight for democracy. Freedom of expression has limits, especially when it injures the dignity of others,” Afegbua said.
He also commented on Edo politics, assuring citizens that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s 14-member State Assets Verification Committee, of which he is a member, will soon unveil findings from its probe into former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration.
“Edo people should be patient. Obaseki has no hiding place. The rot he left is visible—bad roads, poor infrastructure, failed schools, and questionable projects. Our panel will deliver justice in due time,” Afegbua declared.
