Isaac Samuel
Thousands of youths have called on former President Goodluck Jonathan to run for the 2027 presidential election.
The Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan staged a protest at his Abuja office on Wednesday, April 8, demanding that the former president re-enter active politics.
The demonstrators carried banners and placards with messages such as “GEJ: Nigeria is dying, save it!” and “GEJ, if you don’t run, we quench”, urging Jonathan to throw his hat into the 2027 contest.
Dr. Tom Ohikere, national president of the coalition, described Jonathan as the nation’s only unifying force capable of averting the looming political and economic crises.
He noted that the group had consulted communities nationwide over six months, with overwhelming support for Jonathan’s return to leadership.
Despite the protest, Jonathan did not meet the youths, and his aides confirmed that the visit was unplanned. The coalition vowed to return until they receive a response from the former president.
Several groups have in recent months publicly called for Jonathan’s political comeback.
Jonathan, in past remarks, has encouraged African nations to support younger leaders aged 25–50, highlighting the stamina required for governance.
He urged young Africans to view leadership as service, stressing that strong institutions, not age, sustain democracy.
