A political strategist and the national coordinator of the African Democratic Congress Polling Units Support Group, Prince Crispus Amarabhi Ovoh Jnr., has dismissed former President Goodluck Jonathan as a viable candidate for the upcoming 2027 presidential election.
Prince Amarabhi Ovoh Jr. made the remarks during an interview with Diaspora Digital Media (DDM).
Speaking, the Ijaw-born politician from Ogbia, same town as the former president, advised Nigerians to move beyond Jonathan, saying that he lacks the capacity for change in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Prince Ovoh Jr. called for a change in Nigeria’s political landscape, but without Jonathan in the equation.
He expressed belief that “Peter Obi has the experience, vision, and capacity to bring Nigeria back to a path of greatness”, and asked Nigerians to go for him.
Read excerpts from the interview below:
As a political strategist and the national coordinator of the African Democratic Congress Polling Units Support Group, your insights are invaluable, especially with the upcoming 2027 elections on the horizon. Let’s delve into your views regarding former President Goodluck Jonathan and the future of Nigeria.
Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss the political landscape of our nation.
You have openly advised Nigerians to move beyond former President Goodluck Jonathan as a viable candidate for the upcoming elections. Can you elaborate on why you believe that is crucial?
Certainly. While I hold immense respect for Goodluck Jonathan as a person and acknowledge our shared roots from Oloibiri and Ogbia, I believe that the current state of Nigeria demands a fresh approach.
Over the past 12 years, the country has been in a deep free fall due to misgovernance, largely influenced by a socio-political climate that is so demonically wired by the APC. Goodluck’s presidency was marred by challenges, and, while he did his best, his approach was sometimes too lenient for the pressing issues we face.
So you’re advocating for a candidate like Peter Obi instead? What qualities do you see in him that make him a preferable choice?
Absolutely. I believe Peter Obi has the experience, vision, and capacity to bring Nigeria back to a path of greatness. He demonstrates a proactive approach grounded in transparency and accountability—qualities that Nigeria urgently needs right now.
His understanding of economic revitalization and youth engagement is commendable. Obi embodies the hope that this nation needs to recover from the devastation of poor governance.
You mentioned that many people arguing for Goodluck don’t possess a comprehensive understanding of his capabilities anymore. Can you elaborate on that?
As someone from his home region and who admires him deeply, I can confidently say that many of those making the case for his return may not truly grasp his current readiness or willingness to take on such a monumental task again.
We, his family and close aides, understand his mental state and acknowledge that he is not prepared to lead the nation at this juncture. It is crucial for us to consider candidates who are not only enthusiastic but also equipped to navigate the numerous challenges facing Nigeria today.
Given Nigeria’s diverse political landscape, how do you envision building support for Peter Obi among the populace, especially in a landscape that has been historically polarized?
Building support for Obi will require concerted efforts at the grassroots level. The ADC Polling Units Support Group is already working to establish structures that resonate with the common people.
We aim to communicate the message of hope and renewal through community engagement, town hall meetings, and using various media platforms. It’s vital that we educate the citizens on Peter Obi’s vision and how he plans to actualize it, so they can be informed voters rather than swayed by party rhetoric.
As we approach the elections, what message would you like to convey to Nigerians about their role in shaping the future of the country?
I urge Nigerians to take an active role in the electoral process. We must prioritize informed decision-making and actively participate in discussions surrounding our political options.
It is time for us to set aside sentiments linked to past leaders and focus on candidates who offer not just promises, but tangible solutions to our pressing issues. Let’s rally behind visionary leaders who can truly propel Nigeria towards progress and prosperity.
Thank you, Prince Crispus, for your insights and perspectives. It’s clear that you are passionate about Nigeria’s future, and we appreciate your time today.
Thank you for having me. Together, we can build a better Nigeria.
