Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed interest in contesting the presidential election again, suggesting that he may be on the ballot in 2027.
He, however, said he would speak to critical stakeholders and consult extensively before making his final decision on whether to throw his hat in the ring one more time for the forthcoming 2027 presidential election.
Jonathan spoke on Thursday while addressing his supporters who marched to his office and demanded that he contest the presidential election.
“It’s only patriotic citizens who build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation, take the money anywhere to enjoy their lives. So you must be patriotic. And things are very, very clear.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace. So as young people, for most of you here, more than 80% of you are very young people.”
The former Bayelsa State governor also underscored the need for peace and credible elections because without them capable and well-intentioned citizens will continue to stay away from politics.
“I don’t even know how old some of you were when I was a President, but the key thing is peace in this country, and you will continue to advocate for that, and you continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections in the country, because if we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, most good citizens will not want to bother get involved in politics.
“And as youths, you will continue to advocate for that. It’s very dear to us peaceful election, and indeed you as young people must continue to be fully involved in the electoral processes, especially your right to vote,” he said.
He noted that contesting for the presidency required serious work and careful consideration and not something one can do haphazardly or rush into.
“I’ve observed elections in about 14 or more African countries, some I have been to two times.
“Presidential race is not a computer game, but I heard you, and I will consult widely, but the most important thing is in Nigeria that the young people will have in Nigeria that will plan for our grandchildren,” Jonathan said.
