Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reacted to growing calls for him to contest Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, saying the race for the nation’s highest office is “not a computer game.”
Jonathan made the remark on Thursday while receiving youth groups who visited him at his office in Abuja to urge him to return to the presidential race ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Responding to the appeal, the former president said he would not make a hasty decision, stressing that leadership required broad consultations and careful reflection.
“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,” Jonathan said.
The former Nigerian leader commended the youths for showing concern about the country’s future, noting that patriotism and civic participation remained critical to nation-building.
“If you have no interest in the country, you will not bother to be here,” he added.
Jonathan also urged Nigerian youths to continue advocating for peace, credible elections, and democratic stability, warning that flawed electoral processes discourage competent citizens from entering 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 stated.
The former president expressed concern over Nigeria’s consistently low voter turnout during elections despite the country’s large voting population.
According to him, Nigeria records one of the poorest voter participation rates compared to several African and Southeast Asian countries where he has observed elections.
“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,” Jonathan said.
He challenged the visiting youths to actively participate in elections by registering and obtaining their voter cards rather than only demanding political change from leaders.
“If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50% of you don’t have your voter’s card. And you’re asking me to go and contest the election. So you must participate in the electoral process,” he stated.
Jonathan also lamented the perception of Nigerians abroad, linking it partly to years of leadership failures and governance challenges.
“The highest level of disdain shown to Nigerian youths abroad has to stop,” he said.
Despite the pressure from supporters, Jonathan maintained that he had only listened to their appeal and would continue consultations before deciding whether to join the 2027 presidential race.
“I will consult. I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again. But I am telling you that I will consult. If there is a need to, I will wait,” Jonathan added.
