A coalition of youths under the banner of the Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan on Thursday staged a solidarity rally at the Abuja residence of former President Goodluck Jonathan, urging him to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The demonstrators gathered around Taraba Close in the Maitama area of the Federal Capital Territory, chanting songs and displaying placards calling on the former Nigerian leader to return to active politics.
The rally caused heavy traffic congestion in parts of the upscale district as supporters danced, sang and waved banners bearing inscriptions such as, “GEJ: Nigeria is dying, save it,” and “GEJ, if you no run, we quench.”
The youths described Jonathan as a unifying figure capable of addressing the country’s political and economic challenges.
Thursday’s demonstration adds to the growing campaign by various political and civic groups calling on the former president to seek another term in office ahead of the 2027 general election.
Addressing the crowd, Jonathan acknowledged the calls and said he would consult widely before taking a decision on the matter.
“I’ve heard you loud and clear. I will consult widely before taking any decision,” the former president told the cheering supporters.
Jonathan also urged Nigerian youths to participate actively in the democratic process and emphasised the need for peaceful, transparent and credible elections in the country.
The former Bayelsa State governor expressed concern over the level of voter apathy in Nigeria, describing it as one of the major threats to the nation’s democracy.
“Nigeria has one of the highest levels of voter apathy in all the elections I have observed globally,” he said.
He further encouraged young Nigerians to move beyond passive political engagement and contribute meaningfully to civic and electoral activities.
Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015 before losing his re-election bid to former President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress.
