[VIDEO] Jonathan opens up on 2027 race, promises wide consultations

Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday said he would undertake broad consultations before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election amid mounting calls by youth groups urging him to return to power.

Jonathan made the remarks while addressing supporters and youth organisations who visited him in Abuja to appeal for his participation in the next presidential race.

The former president cautioned that contesting for Nigeria’s highest office was a serious undertaking that required careful reflection and engagement with stakeholders.

“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 praised the youths for showing interest in the nation’s future, noting that active citizenship and patriotism were essential for national development.

According to him, sustainable democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and credible elections.

“The key thing we need in this country is peace. You must continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections because without them, many competent citizens will stay away from politics,” he stated.

The former president also expressed concern over low voter participation in Nigeria, describing the country’s turnout during elections as poor compared to other nations where he had monitored electoral processes.

“I’ve observed elections in several African countries and Southeast Asia, and Nigeria records one of the lowest voter turnouts,” he said.

Jonathan urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to study the causes of voter apathy and develop strategies to encourage greater participation.

He further challenged Nigerian youths to take the electoral process more seriously by registering to vote and participating actively during elections.

“If I ask how many of you have voter cards, probably half of you do not have them. Yet you want me to contest. You must participate in the electoral process,” he told the delegation.

Jonathan also decried the treatment and perception of Nigerians abroad, attributing it partly to leadership failures over the years.

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

Although he stopped short of declaring his intention to run, Jonathan reiterated that he would reflect carefully on the appeals and consult before taking any political step ahead of 2027.

“I cannot just wake up and say I want to be president again. I will consult before making any decision,” he said.

Watch video of Jonathan speaking via this link