Dare Babalola
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will consult widely before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, following growing calls from some Nigerian youths urging him to return to frontline politics.
Jonathan made the remarks on Thursday at his Abuja office while receiving youth groups who visited him to press for his participation in the next general election.
Responding to their appeal, the former president acknowledged their concerns but stopped short of declaring any intention to run.
“I’ve heard you loud and clear. I will consult widely before taking any decision,” Jonathan said.
He also urged young Nigerians to continue promoting peaceful, transparent, and credible elections, stressing that democracy can only thrive when citizens actively participate in the electoral process and when results reflect the genuine will of the people.
Speaking on voter participation, Jonathan expressed concern over declining turnout in elections across the country, describing voter apathy as a major challenge to Nigeria’s democracy.
“Nigeria has one of the highest levels of voter apathy in all the elections I have observed globally,” he said.
He further called on youths to become more involved in civic engagement, political participation, and democratic processes rather than remaining passive observers.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, remains one of the prominent political figures frequently mentioned in discussions surrounding possible political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections.
