Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will consult widely before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing the race for Nigeria’s top office as a serious undertaking that requires careful reflection.
Jonathan stated this on Thursday in Abuja while receiving youth groups who urged him to return to the presidential race.
Responding to the appeal, the former president cautioned against trivialising the process of seeking the nation’s highest office.
“The presidential race is not a computer game. I have heard you, and I will consult widely,” he said.
He commended the visiting youths for their interest in national affairs, noting that patriotism and civic engagement remain critical to Nigeria’s development.
“If you have no interest in the country, you will not bother to be here,” Jonathan added.
The former president also stressed the need for peaceful and credible elections, warning that flawed electoral processes often discourage capable Nigerians from participating in politics.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace. You must continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections. Without that, most good citizens will not want to get involved,” he said.
Jonathan expressed concern over Nigeria’s persistently low voter turnout, describing it as one of the lowest globally despite the country’s large voting population.
“I have observed elections in many African countries and even in Southeast Asia. Nigeria records very low turnout in every election cycle,” he noted.
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to investigate the causes of voter apathy and adopt strategies to improve participation.
The former president also challenged young Nigerians to take a more active role in the democratic process by registering and voting during elections.
“If I ask how many of you have your voter cards, probably about half do not. Yet, you are asking me to contest. You must participate in the process,” he said.
Jonathan further decried the negative perception of Nigerians abroad, linking it partly to leadership challenges over the years.
He, however, reiterated that he had only listened to the calls and would continue consultations before taking any decision on the 2027 election.
“I cannot just wake up and declare for president. I will consult, and if there is a need, I will act accordingly,” he said.
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