Former President Goodluck Jonathan has indicated interest in the 2027 presidential election, saying he would consult widely before taking a final decision.
Jonathan spoke on Thursday in Abuja after a group of supporters visited his office to urge him to contest the next presidential election.
Addressing the supporters, the former president stressed the need for patriotism, peace, and credible elections in Nigeria.
“It’s only patriotic citizens who build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation, take the money elsewhere and enjoy their lives. So you must be patriotic,” he said.
Jonathan Emphasises Peace, Credible Elections
Jonathan said peaceful and transparent elections remained critical to Nigeria’s democratic development, noting that many competent citizens avoid politics because of flaws in the electoral process.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said.
“For most of you here, more than 80 per cent are young people. I don’t even know how old some of you were when I was President, but the important thing is peace in this country.”
He urged young Nigerians to continue advocating peaceful and credible elections and to remain actively involved in the democratic process, particularly through voting.
“If we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, many good citizens will not want to get involved in politics,” he added.
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‘Presidential Race is not a Computer Game’
Jonathan also reflected on his experience observing elections across Africa, saying he had participated in election observation missions in more than 14 African countries.
According to him, leadership requires careful consideration and long-term planning.
“Nigeria has one of the highest rates of voter apathy I have seen globally. You have come today to ask me to run. I have heard you. The presidential race is not a computer game. I will consult widely,” he said.
“The most important thing is building a Nigeria that young people will sustain, and that will also work for our grandchildren.”
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.