RismadarVoice Reporters, May 7, 2026
Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday said he would “consult widely” before making any decision on a possible return to presidential politics in 2027, resisting mounting pressure from youth groups urging him to contest the next election.
Jonathan spoke in Abuja after a delegation of youths stormed his office to appeal for his candidacy, citing concerns over governance and national unity ahead of the next electoral cycle.
“You are asking me to come and contest the next election. Presidential race is not a computer game,” Jonathan told the group. “I’ve heard you and I’ll consult widely.”
The former president stressed that leadership decisions must be approached with caution and broad consultation, insisting he would not rush into declaring interest in the race.
“I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again,” he added. “But I am telling you that I will consult. If there is a need to, I will wait.”
Jonathan also used the occasion to express concern over declining voter participation in Nigeria, describing the country’s turnout during elections as among the lowest globally despite its large voting population.
According to him, many young Nigerians demanding change are not actively participating in the democratic process.
“Probably 50% of you don’t have your voter’s card, yet you are asking me to contest,” he said, challenging the youths to register and vote in future elections.
He further urged young people and civil society groups to advocate for peaceful and credible elections, warning that flawed electoral processes continue to discourage competent Nigerians from seeking public office.
“If elections are not credible, good citizens will not be willing to participate in politics,” Jonathan said.
The former president also lamented what he described as the growing “disdain” faced by Nigerian youths abroad, blaming poor leadership and governance failures for the country’s declining international image.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, remains one of the political figures frequently mentioned in discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections, although he has yet to formally declare any ambition.
