Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday said he would consult widely before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election following mounting calls by youths urging him to return to power.
Jonathan spoke in Abuja when a group, under the banner of “Coalition for Jonathan 2027,” stormed his office to appeal to him to run for president on any political platform of his choice.
Responding to the appeal, the former president said seeking the nation’s highest office was a serious undertaking that required deep consultations and careful consideration.
“Contesting for presidency is not a computer game,” Jonathan said.
“I’ve heard from the young people. I will consult. I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again. But I’m telling you that I will consult. If there is need to, fine,” he added.
Jonathan, however, challenged Nigerian youths to move beyond political campaigns and participate actively in the electoral process.
He expressed concern over low voter turnout in Nigeria, saying many young people demanding change had yet to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).
“If I ask how many of you have your voter cards now, probably 50 per cent of you don’t even have your voter cards, and you’re asking me to contest the presidential election,” he said.
“As young people, you must participate in the electoral process.”
The former president also lamented the growing “japa” trend among Nigerian youths and the negative perception of Nigerians abroad, blaming it on poor leadership and lack of opportunities at home.
“The japa syndrome in Nigeria has to stop,” he said.
“They now see Nigeria as if we are a bunch of criminals because leaders have not been able to build the country and give hope to young people.”
Jonathan stressed that Nigeria needed peaceful and credible elections to restore confidence in governance and encourage citizens’ participation in politics.
Earlier, National President of the coalition, Dr. Tom Ohikere, urged Jonathan to declare interest in the 2027 election, insisting that Nigerians were yearning for his return.
“We are asking you to hear our cries and contest the 2027 presidential election, sir,” Ohikere said.
A youth representative of the group, Chikodiri Adogu, said many Nigerians still remembered Jonathan’s administration for stable electricity supply, improved infrastructure and economic growth.
“We want to experience good governance again and have something better to give the next generation,” he stated.
