According to a report by The Sun on Thursday, May 7, 2026, former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged youth groups advocating for his participation in the 2027 presidential election to focus first on obtaining their voter cards and actively engaging in the electoral process before encouraging him to return to the contest.
He gave this advice on Thursday while meeting with delegations of young supporters at his office in Abuja. The groups had visited him to express their desire for him to run again for the nation’s top political position.
In his response, Jonathan emphasized that seeking the presidency of Nigeria is a weighty responsibility that requires careful consideration and should not be treated lightly or approached without seriousness.
He further advised the youths to demonstrate genuine dedication to democratic principles by ensuring they are registered voters and by taking part in elections, rather than limiting their involvement to making political appeals.
Jonathan pointed out that a significant number of young Nigerians advocate for change but do not fully participate in the democratic system that enables such transformation.
He highlighted the importance of credible and peaceful elections as the bedrock of effective governance, noting that capable and committed individuals are often discouraged from entering politics when the electoral process lacks transparency and fairness.
The former president also raised concerns about Nigeria’s low voter turnout, describing it as among the lowest he has observed when compared with other African countries and nations in Southeast Asia where he has served as an election observer.
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to examine the underlying causes of poor voter participation and develop sustainable solutions, while also expressing worry over the negative treatment faced by Nigerian youths abroad, linking it to leadership challenges that have affected the country’s global reputation.
Despite the increasing calls for his return, Jonathan stated that he would take his time to consult widely before making any decision regarding the 2027 election.
“If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50 percent 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….See More
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