Jonathan speaks on 2027 presidential race, says ‘I’ll consult widely’

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he would consult widely before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing the race for Nigeria’s top office as a serious undertaking.

Jonathan made the remark on Thursday while receiving youth groups at his office in Abuja, where they appealed to him to return to the presidential contest.

Responding to the request, the former president said leadership decisions required deep reflection and consultations.

“You are asking me to come and contest the next election. Presidential race is not a computer game. But I’ve heard you and I’ll consult widely,” he said.

Jonathan commended the youths for showing concern about the future of the country, noting that patriotism and active participation were necessary for national development.

“If you have no interest in the country, you will not bother to be here,” he added.

The former president also called on young Nigerians to promote peace and credible elections, stressing that transparent electoral processes would encourage capable citizens to participate in politics.

“The key thing we need in this country is peace. You continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections in the country. Because if we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, most good citizens will not want to bother to get involved in politics,” he stated.

Jonathan expressed concern over Nigeria’s low voter turnout, describing it as one of the poorest among countries where he had observed elections.

“I’ve observed elections in about 14 or more African countries and even Southeast Asia. Nigeria has the lowest turnout in every election cycle,” he said.

He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to examine the causes of voter apathy and find ways to improve citizens’ participation in elections.

The former president also challenged the youths to take part in the electoral process by registering and obtaining voter cards instead of limiting their involvement to political discussions.

“If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50 per cent of you don’t have your voter’s card. And you’re asking me to go and contest the election. So you must participate in the electoral process,” he said.

Jonathan further lamented the treatment of Nigerians abroad, attributing part of the problem to years of poor leadership and governance failures.

“The highest level of disdain shown to Nigerian youths abroad has to stop,” he said.

He, however, maintained that he had only listened to the appeal by the youth groups and would continue consultations before making any decision ahead of the 2027 elections.

“I will consult. I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again. But I am telling you that I will consult,” Jonathan added.