Former President Goodluck Jonathan is keeping his 2027 options open, stating on Thursday that he will “consult widely” before making any official announcements.
Speaking to a diverse group of supporters at his Abuja office, Jonathan heard pleas for him to join the upcoming presidential race.
The group cited a “genuine fear” for Nigeria’s stability as their primary motivation for backing the former leader, urging him to return to the political fray to help steer the country forward.
“We decided to march on your office today again, hoping that you will step out to receive us and make a statement that will gladden our hearts and the entire nation,” one of the supporters said.
Jonathan was presented with a petition asking him to consider running for president in 2027, with the supporters claiming to represent more than 10 million Nigerians across the country.
“We are asking you to hear our cries and contest the 2027 presidential election. The mammoth crowd that came with us here today is a fragment of our supporters nationwide,” they said.
“Your Excellency, we have over 10 million supporters nationwide. And then, we represent every tribe, every political party, and tongue.”
In response, Jonathan emphasized that he would approach the matter with the utmost seriousness, saying:
“This is no computer game. It’s only patriotic citizens that build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation, take the money to anywhere to enjoy their life. So you must be patriotic. And things are very, very clear.”
Jonathan, who is widely regarded as a respected figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, acknowledged the importance of peace in the country, especially for young Nigerians. He noted that over 80% of the supporters present were young people.Nigerian political analysis
“The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said. “I don’t even know how old some of you were when I was a President. But the key thing is peace in this country, and you will continue to advocate for that.”
Jonathan also called for peaceful and credible elections in Nigeria, stressing that such elections are critical for the nation’s development and the engagement of young people in politics.Election analysis platform
“It’s very dear to us – peaceful elections. And, indeed, you as young people must continue to be fully involved in the electoral processes, especially your right to vote,” he added.
The former president, who has been involved in election observation across 14 African countries, also expressed his desire for the nation to look towards the future, saying that “young people will have a Nigeria that will plan for our grandchildren.”
Persecondnews recalls that PDP’s Jonathan who ruled between 2009 and 2015 following the death of President Umaru Yar’Adua, was ousted by a coalition of political parties spearheaded by the All Progressives Congress with the late President Muhammadu Buhari as the flagbearer.
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