Jonathan says he’ll consult widely on 2027 presidential run

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he would consult widely before deciding whether to return to the presidential race ahead of the 2027 general election.

He stated this on Thursday while addressing a coalition of youths under the banner of the Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan, who staged a solidarity rally at his Abuja residence urging him to contest the 2027 presidential election.

Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015 before losing his re-election bid to former President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He acknowledged their appeals, saying he would consult widely before taking any decision regarding the 2027 presidential race.

“I have heard you loud and clear. I will consult widely before taking any decision,” he said.

The former president also urged young Nigerians to participate more actively in the democratic process, stressing the need for peaceful, transparent and credible elections.

Jonathan expressed concern over the growing rate of voter apathy in the country, describing it as one of the biggest challenges confronting Nigeria’s democracy.

“Nigeria has one of the highest levels of voter apathy in all the elections I have observed globally,” he said.

He encouraged youths to move beyond passive observation and become more involved in civic and political activities.

The demonstrators gathered around Taraba Close in Maitama, chanting slogans and displaying placards calling on Jonathan to return to active politics.

The rally caused heavy traffic congestion in parts of the highbrow district as supporters sang, danced and waved banners with messages such as, “GEJ: Nigeria is dying, save it!” and “GEJ, if you no run, we quench.”

The group described the former president as a unifying leader capable of addressing Nigeria’s current political and socio-economic challenges.