Robert Azibaola, a cousin of former President Goodluck Jonathan, has defended Jonathan’s potential candidacy for the 2027 presidential election, responding to remarks from Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo and human-rights scholar Prof. Chidi Odinkalu. Keyamo had warned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against nominating Jonathan, citing legal challenges due to his previous two terms in office.
In a statement on Facebook, Azibaola asserted that Jonathan is “100% constitutionally and legally qualified” to run if he chooses to. He criticized Keyamo and Odinkalu for offering unsolicited legal advice, emphasizing that Jonathan has qualified legal counsel.
Azibaola stated, “If he decides not to yield to the overwhelming calls to run, it will not be because he is unqualified.” He further suggested that Keyamo and Odinkalu should educate themselves on relevant court judgments related to the matter.
While Jonathan has not officially declared his intention to run, speculation about his return has sparked significant debate. Azibaola clarified that his statement does not confirm Jonathan’s candidacy but reinforces his eligibility.
