Olushola Omogbehin
Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has disclosed that he will make wide consultation before taking a decision on the forthcoming 2027 presidential election.
He said this on Thursday when some supporters called at his office in Abuja, urging him to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The group told Jonathan during the visit that: “Because of our genuine fear of (Nigeria’s) possible collapse, we decided to march to your office today again, hoping that you will step out to receive us and make a statement that will gladden our hearts and the entire nation.
“We are asking you to hear our cries and contest the 2027 presidential election. The mammoth crowd that came with us here today is a fragment of our supporters nationwide.
“Your Excellency, we have over 10 million supporters nationwide … . And then, we represent every tribe, every political party, and tongue. Young, old, girls and boys, men and women are all here crying for your voice to say ‘Yes’ to our request.
“We’re asking you, sir, to kindly make a commitment for the 2027 presidential election.”
Responding, Jonathan said he would consult widely before taking any decision because leadership required careful consideration.
“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.
Commending the youths for showing interest in the country, Jonathan said patriotism is essential to nation-building.
“If you have no interest in the country, you will not bother to be here,” he added.
The former president also appealed to young Nigerians to promote peace and credible elections, because absence of transparent electoral processes discourages competent citizens from participating in politics.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace. You 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 to get involved in politics,” he said.
Lamenting over Nigeria’s low voter turnout, Jonathan said Nigeria records one of the poorest participation rates during elections in spite of having a large voting population.
“I’ve observed elections in about 14 or more African countries and even Southeast Asia. Nigeria has the lowest turnout in every election cycle.
“I think INEC needs to do something about it. They need to start to get consultants to look at it. And what is the cause? As young people, you must be involved in the electoral process,” he said.
