Protest for Jonathan to Contest 2027 Presidency Gains Momentum as Former President Receives Crowd of Concerned Youth

By Monday Peters, Abuja

ABUJA — Calls for former President Goodluck Jonathan to enter the 2027 presidential race are intensifying, with youth groups staging fresh protests in Abuja this week. The renewed push comes even as Jonathan himself urged restraint, saying the presidency is “not a computer game” and requires serious consultation.

The demonstrations, organized by several youth coalitions, saw placard-carrying supporters converge at Jonathan’s Abuja office on Thursday, chanting slogans and demanding that he declare his intention to run. Organizers argue that Jonathan represents stability, national unity, and experience at a time when Nigerians are frustrated with the current political direction.

Receiving the delegations, Jonathan acknowledged the appeals but stopped short of confirming any bid. He said any decision would demand *“broad consultations and deep reflection”* and warned against treating the presidency as a casual venture.

“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 told the crowd.

Jonathan said governance cannot be driven by social media sentiment or public enthusiasm alone. He emphasized that leadership requires a clear vision, capacity, and long-term commitment to the country’s future.

He linked political participation to credible elections, pointing to Nigeria’s low voter turnout as a structural problem. “I’ve observed elections in about 14 African countries and even Southeast Asia. Nigeria has the lowest turnout in every election cycle,” he said. “INEC needs to do something about it.”

The former president challenged the youth to translate advocacy into action by registering and voting. “If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50% of you don’t have your voter’s card. And you’re asking me to go and contest the election,” he stated.

Jonathan served as president from 2010 to 2015 and is constitutionally eligible to run again, having not completed two full terms. His name has resurfaced in political circles as both PDP and neutral stakeholders search for a unifying figure ahead of 2027.

While Jonathan has not ruled out a return, he made clear he won’t act without wide consultations. “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.

He also raised concerns about Nigeria’s damaged reputation abroad, blaming years of governance failures and urging young people to help restore the country’s image.