Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has kept speculation alive over a possible return to the presidential race in 2027, saying he will consult widely before making a decision. Jonathan made the remarks while receiving members of the Coalition for Jonathan 2027, who visited him in Abuja to formally urge him to contest the next presidential election.
The group, led by Dr Tom Ohikere, pressed the former President to declare his interest early, obtain a nomination form from a political party of his choice, and enter the 2027 race. They argued that his return would help stabilize the country amid rising political and security concerns.
Addressing the delegation, Jonathan emphasized patriotism, national unity, and the need for greater youth participation in Nigeria's democratic process. He expressed concern over low voter turnout despite Nigeria's large voting population, urging young people to register and participate actively in elections.
While acknowledging the appeal from his supporters, Jonathan stopped short of making any commitment. He said, "It's only patriotic citizens that 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 per cent of you are very young people. The presidential race is not a computer game. But I have heard you. And I will consult widely. But the most important thing is in Nigeria, the young people will have a Nigeria that will plan for our grandchildren."
Court Case on Eligibility
Meanwhile, a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has fixed today, May 8, 2026, for the hearing of a case seeking to stop Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential election. The suit was filed by a lawyer, Johnmary Jideobi, who asked the court to declare Jonathan ineligible to run for President again under the Nigerian Constitution.
Jideobi also sought an order restraining Jonathan from joining any political party as a presidential candidate and stopping the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from accepting or publishing his name for the election. Jonathan, INEC, and the Attorney-General of the Federation were listed as defendants in the suit.
In an affidavit supporting the case, Emmanuel Agida said reports linking Jonathan to the 2027 election prompted the plaintiff to take legal action. The affidavit further stated that if Jonathan contests and wins, he would be sworn in as President for a third time. Agida said the suit was filed in the public interest, in defence of the rule of law and the supremacy of the Constitution, and to preserve the integrity of the Nigerian constitutional order.
