Kano State is gripped by political intrigue following the sudden appearance of campaign posters featuring former President Goodluck Jonathan.
The posters, seen in key areas such as the Gyadi-Gyadi/Zoo Road flyover, Kofar Nasarawa, and State Road, have sparked intense speculation.
Boldly declaring “Team New Nigeria 2027: The Goodluck Nigeria Needs,” the posters suggest a potential political comeback for the former leader.
No Official Confirmation from Jonathan
Despite the buzz, there is no confirmation that Jonathan is involved in the campaign.
His spokesperson, Okechukwu Eze, was unavailable for comment.
Political observers, however, believe the posters could signal early groundwork for the 2027 elections.
Team New Nigeria: The Group Behind the Posters
The posters were put up by a group called Team New Nigeria (TNN), led by Modibbo Yakubu Farakwai.
Farakwai addressed journalists in Kano, explaining the group’s mission to foster political change.
“Nigerians are hungry for change,” Farakwai said.
“They want a new party with fresh faces to drive that change and transform governance at all levels.”
A Nationwide Movement
According to Farakwai, TNN has already gathered a voter base of over 26 million across Nigeria.
The group is also in the process of formalizing itself as a political party.
“We are designing a party flag, logo, constitution, and manifesto,” he revealed.
Consultations with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are ongoing.
A Call for National Transformation
Farakwai described TNN’s mission as a call to action for Nigerians seeking a new governance model.
“We are engaging the public in rallies and dialogues across the country,” he said.
“Our goal is to inspire a new conversation about Nigeria’s future.”
Historical Context and Speculation
This development mirrors an incident in 2022, when Jonathan’s supporters attempted to draft him into the presidential race under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At the time, Jonathan distanced himself from the move but did not rule out future political ambitions.
A court ruling in his favor confirmed that he remains eligible to run for office despite having served two terms.
Jonathan led Nigeria from 2010 to 2015, losing his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari of the APC.
The possibility of his return has stirred diverse reactions across political circles.
Mixed Reactions to the Posters
While some Nigerians welcome the idea of Jonathan’s return, others question the rationale behind it.
Supporters believe he could bring stability and experience to Nigeria’s governance.
Critics, however, argue that Nigeria needs younger leaders with fresh ideas.
A resident of Kano, Musa Ibrahim, said, “Jonathan has been tested before. If he’s returning, he must show us what he can offer now.”
Another resident, Fatima Lawal, said, “We need leaders who understand the challenges of today, not just those who have been there before.”
What’s Next for Team New Nigeria?
Without Jonathan’s endorsement, the future of TNN remains uncertain.
Political analysts suggest that TNN’s success depends heavily on whether Jonathan officially aligns with the group.
For now, TNN continues its nationwide mobilization efforts.
“We believe in this cause,” Farakwai said.
“We are determined to reshape Nigeria’s political future.”
A New Political Force?
The emergence of TNN could signal the rise of a new political force in Nigeria.
If successful, it may alter the dynamics of the 2027 elections.
Observers are watching closely to see how events unfold.
As one political commentator put it, “Whether Jonathan runs or not, this movement could change the game.”
For now, all eyes are on Kano and the unfolding political drama.
