Coalition Urges Former President Goodluck Jonathan to Enter 2027 Presidential Race

By Babatunji Wusu

A nationwide movement has officially called upon former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election, citing a desperate need for national “rescue.” The appeal was made on Wednesday during a high-profile rally at Jonathan’s office in Abuja, led by the Coalition for Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. The group’s leadership stated that the plea follows an intensive six-month consultation process across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

National President of the coalition, Tom Ohikere, described the former president as a “bridge-builder” uniquely capable of healing the country’s deep ethnic and regional divisions. Ohikere highlighted Jonathan’s previous tenure from 2010 to 2015, contrasting the economic realities of that era—specifically the exchange rate and the price of essential commodities like rice—with the current hardships facing Nigerians. The group argued that Jonathan’s return is not just a political suggestion but a “direct mandate from millions of Nigerians” ready to mobilize for a landslide victory.

Adding weight to the call, the coalition’s National Secretary, Jibril Mustapha, pointed to the rising tide of insecurity and hunger, particularly in Northern Nigeria, as the primary motivation for the movement. Other leaders within the group, including Amodu Abacha, praised Jonathan’s democratic credentials, recalling his historic decision to concede the 2015 election before the final results were announced. Abacha noted that a return to power for a former leader is a growing global trend, citing examples in the United States and Ghana as precedents for Jonathan’s potential comeback.

While the former president was not present to receive the group in person, the coalition has urged him to declare his interest early to facilitate a grassroots campaign. As of now, Goodluck Jonathan has not issued a formal response to the invitation, and the specific political platform under which he might run remains unconfirmed.

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