Jonathan Responds to 2027 Presidential Calls, Raises Concerns About Voter Apathy

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has responded to growing calls for him to contest the 2027 presidential election, stating that he cannot make such a decision without conducting broad consultations across the country.

Jonathan spoke after a group of supporters led thousands of people to his Abuja office on Thursday, urging him to pick up a nomination form and join the 2027 presidential race.

Addressing the supporters, the former president expressed concern over voter apathy in Nigeria, describing the country’s voter turnout as one of the lowest during election cycles.

“Nigeria has the lowest voter turnout in every election cycle. We have the highest voter apathy,” Jonathan said.

“Probably 50 per cent of you don’t have voter cards, and you are asking me to go and contest the election. Presidential race is not a computer game.”

Jonathan further stated that many Nigerians, especially young people, have continued to appeal to him to return to active politics, but stressed that he would not rush into making a decision.

“Over 50 per cent of Nigerians don’t have a voter card but you are asking me to run for the presidency,” he said.

“I’ve heard from young people, and I’ll consult. I cannot just wake up and decide I want to be president of Nigeria again. As I said, I’ll consult, and if there’s a need, I will.”

The former president did not officially declare his intention to contest but indicated that consultations with stakeholders and supporters would determine his next political move ahead of the 2027 general election.