By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Former President Goodluck Jonathan says he will consult widely before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election. Jonathan made the statement on Thursday in Abuja while meeting youth groups urging him to join the race. He stressed that Nigeria needs peaceful and credible elections and expressed concern over low voter turnout. Meanwhile, the Federal High Court in Abuja is preparing to hear a suit challenging his eligibility to contest again.
Jonathan Says 2027 Presidency Requires Careful Consultation
Jonathan told the youth groups that running for president requires deep reflection and consultation. He added that the presidency “is not a computer game.”
According to him, he cannot make such a major political decision without speaking to stakeholders across the country.
“I will consult. I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again,” Jonathan said.
However, he confirmed that he had heard the calls from supporters and would continue consultations before making any final decision.
Jonathan Raises Concern Over Low Voter Turnout
The former president also criticised Nigeria’s low voter participation during elections.
Jonathan said he had monitored elections in more than 14 African and Asian countries. Yet, he noted that Nigeria records one of the lowest voter turnouts.
“I think INEC needs to do something about it,” he stated.
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to study the causes of voter apathy and engage experts for solutions.
Furthermore, Jonathan challenged Nigerian youths to participate actively in the democratic process instead of only discussing politics online.
“If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50 per cent of you don’t have it,” he said.
Jonathan Calls for Peaceful and Credible Elections
Jonathan stressed that peaceful and transparent elections remain essential for Nigeria’s democratic growth.
According to him, credible elections encourage competent citizens to participate in politics.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said.
He also urged young Nigerians to continue promoting patriotism and national unity.
Court to Hear Suit Challenging Jonathan’s Eligibility
Meanwhile, the Federal High Court in Abuja will hear a suit seeking to stop Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election.
The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2102/2025, was filed by lawyer Johnmary Jideobi.
Justice Peter Lifu had earlier ordered hearing notices to be served on all defendants after they allegedly failed to respond.
Jonathan is listed as the first defendant, while the Independent National Electoral Commission and the Attorney-General of the Federation are also parties in the suit.
The plaintiff wants the court to prevent Jonathan from presenting himself as a presidential candidate in 2027.
Additionally, the suit seeks an order restraining INEC from accepting or publishing his name.
Plaintiff Argues Jonathan Has Exhausted Constitutional Limit
Jideobi argued that Jonathan already completed the constitutional limit for presidential tenure.
According to the affidavit filed by Emmanuel Agida, Jonathan became president on May 6, 2010, after the death of late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
Jonathan later won the 2011 presidential election and completed another full term.
The plaintiff therefore argued that another victory in 2027 would amount to a third presidential oath, which he claims violates the Constitution.
NDC Denies Presidential Pact With Jonathan
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Democratic Congress denied reports linking Jonathan to its 2027 presidential ticket.
Speaking in Abuja, the party’s Deputy National Spokesman, Abdulmumin Abdulsalam, said consultations were still ongoing.
He stated that the party had not zoned its presidential ticket or entered any agreement with Jonathan.
However, Abdulsalam noted that the former president remains constitutionally qualified to contest if he chooses.
He also disclosed that several high-profile politicians, including former governors and lawmakers, were considering joining the party ahead of the next general election.
