Former president says claim is fabricated, warns against rising wave of election-season misinformation

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has firmly dismissed reports alleging he was offered ₦500 billion to contest against Labour Party’s Peter Obi in the 2027 general elections, describing the claim as false, baseless, and politically motivated.

In a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan distanced himself from the allegation, saying it was a calculated attempt to drag his name into unnecessary political controversy and mislead the public.

Eze said the report, which suggested that Jonathan had been approached with a massive financial inducement to enter the race and split votes in the South-South region, lacked any credible details.

“The speculation is completely false, baseless and a deliberate attempt to drag him into needless political controversy,” Eze stated.

He further noted that the publication failed to provide key information, including when and where the alleged offer was made, who made it, or any witnesses to support the claim.

According to him, the story bears “all the hallmarks of fabricated news” designed to stir political tension ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Jonathan was never involved in any ‘₦500 billion offer’ or any plot to divide southern votes against Peter Obi or any other candidate,” the statement clarified.

The former president’s aide urged Nigerians to disregard the report and exercise caution when consuming and sharing politically sensitive information.

“The build-up to every election season often comes with a surge in misinformation and fake attributions. Such reports should not be mistaken for verified facts,” Eze warned.

He reiterated that Jonathan has made no statement suggesting he was offered money to contest the presidency or undermine any political contender.