Former President Goodluck Jonathan has finally responded to growing calls urging him to return to Nigeria’s political stage ahead of the 2027 general election.
Jonathan, who received a large group of supporters in Abuja on Thursday, stopped short of declaring his ambition.
The former president spoke during a visit by members of the Coalition for Jonathan 2027. The group urged him to contest the next presidential election.
Interestingly, Jonathan did not reject the appeal. Instead, he admitted that he had listened carefully to the demands from supporters.
“I’ve heard you and I will consult widely,” Jonathan told the cheering crowd.
His statement immediately drew attention because it is seen as his strongest response yet regarding the 2027 race.
Jonathan also warned that the presidency should not be treated lightly. According to him, leadership requires careful thinking and broad national support.
“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.
The former president stressed that peace and credible elections remain vital for Nigeria’s future.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace. You continue to advocate for that,” Jonathan added.
He also challenged Nigerian youths to become active participants in the electoral process.
“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.
Earlier, the Coalition for Jonathan 2027 passionately appealed to the former president to rescue Nigeria from what it described as growing national uncertainty.
The group’s leader, Dr. Tom Ohikere, recalled a previous visit made in April 2026. He said supporters had continued waiting for Jonathan’s response after their earlier appeal gained national attention.
“Last month, April 8th 2026, The Coalition For Jonathan 2027 paid a friendly visit to your excellency to urge you to run the 2027 Presidential elections to save Nigeria from the impending collapse,” the group stated.
However, others believe the former president remains cautious about entering another heated election season.
Despite the growing pressure, Jonathan insisted that he would not rush into any decision.
“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. If there is a need to, I will wait,” he said.
