By Abdulsamad Abdulmalik
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will consult widely before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing the race for Nigeria’s presidency as “not a computer game.”
Jonathan stated this on Thursday when a group of supporters visited his office in Abuja to urge him to join the 2027 presidential race.
The supporters appealed to the former president to declare his interest and obtain a presidential nomination form from any political party of his choice.
Addressing Jonathan, the group claimed it had millions of supporters across the country and said Nigerians were looking to him amid growing concerns about the nation’s future.
“We are asking you to hear our cries and contest the 2027 presidential election,” the group said.
Responding, Jonathan stressed the importance of patriotism, peace and credible elections in nation-building.
“It’s only patriotic citizens that build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation, take the money elsewhere and enjoy their lives,” he said.
The former president also urged Nigerian youths to continue advocating for peaceful and transparent elections, warning that flawed electoral processes discourage credible citizens from participating in politics.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace. You must 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 get involved in politics,” he stated.
Jonathan noted that he had observed elections in several African countries and cautioned against treating presidential contests lightly.
“I’ve observed elections in about 14 African countries, some of them twice. Presidential race is not a computer game,” he said.
While stopping short of declaring his intention to run, Jonathan said he had listened to the appeal and would consult widely before taking any decision ahead of 2027.
“But I heard you, and I will consult widely. The most important thing is that young people will have a Nigeria that will plan for our grandchildren,” he added.
