Abuja: A coalition of groups from the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has appealed to former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election. The group, under the aegis of Coalition for Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, led by its National President, Dr. Tom Ohikere, made the plea during a rally at the former president’s office in Abuja on Wednesday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ohikere stated that the move followed an intensive six-month nationwide consultation process. He conveyed the group’s message as a direct mandate from millions of Nigerians who are prepared to mobilize for Jonathan’s return. Ohikere described Jonathan as a “bridge-builder” capable of healing ethnic and regional divisions and urged him to declare his interest early to facilitate nationwide mobilization.
Fielding questions from newsmen about Jonathan’s capacity to address Nigeria’s current challenges, Ohikere cited the former president’s leadership qualities, virtues, and past achievements. He emphasized that Jonathan’s previous tenure provides a basis for his capability to lead again. Ohikere added that the platform on which Jonathan should contest would be declared by Jonathan himself in due course.
Dr. Jibril Mustapha, National Secretary of the coalition, highlighted current issues such as hunger and insecurity, particularly in the North, as motivators for urging Jonathan to run. He expressed confidence that Jonathan could handle Nigeria’s challenges, given his track record and concern for the nation’s welfare.
Amodu Abacha, another leader of the group, praised Jonathan as a genuine democrat who demonstrated political maturity by conceding defeat in the 2015 elections. Abacha argued that Jonathan’s return aligns with a global trend of former leaders returning to power and emphasized that Jonathan is the right person to unify and lead Nigeria.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Jonathan was not in his office to receive the group, and as of the time of filing this report, the former president had not issued a formal response to the coalition’s call.