Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reacted to calls asking him to join the 2027 presidential race, saying he would first carry out wide consultations before taking any decision.
Jonathan spoke on Thursday when some youth groups visited his Abuja office to urge him to contest. He reminded them that becoming president is serious business and not something to rush into.
“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 praised the youths for showing concern about the country, saying patriotism is important for national growth.
“If you have no interest in the country, you will not bother to be here,” he added.
Jonathan also called for peaceful and credible elections, warning that many capable Nigerians avoid politics because they do not trust the electoral process.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said, while urging young people to take part in elections by getting their voter cards and voting.
“If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50 percent 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.
He also expressed worry over how Nigerians are treated abroad, blaming years of poor leadership for the situation.
“I will consult. I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again,” Jonathan stated.
