A coalition of Nigerian youths and civil society organisations on Wednesday staged a protest in Abuja, calling on former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest in the 2027 presidential election.
The demonstrators gathered in large numbers at the Abuja residence of the former leader, occupying parts of the capital while chanting slogans and displaying placards expressing their demands. Messages seen at the protest included appeals such as “Nigeria is dying, save it!” alongside other calls urging Jonathan to return to power.
The protest reflects growing momentum among certain groups advocating for Jonathan’s political comeback, with supporters arguing that his leadership experience is needed to address the country’s current challenges.
Speaking at the scene, Tom Ohikere, a public analyst and former Commissioner for Information in Kogi State, revealed that the group had engaged in extensive consultations across the country over the past six months. According to him, the call for Jonathan’s return had been consistent and widespread.
“We have visited several parts of the country, and the demand for his return to rescue Nigeria has been loud and unmistakable,” Ohikere said, noting that protesters had waited for over three hours in hopes of meeting the former president. However, Jonathan did not appear during the demonstration.
As of the time of reporting, Jonathan had yet to respond officially to the calls, leaving uncertainty over whether he would consider entering the race.
The development comes at a time of heightened political activity in Nigeria, with various groups positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections. It also coincides with internal tensions within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where leadership disputes have sparked protests and drawn attention to the opposition landscape.
Observers say the renewed calls for Jonathan’s return signal increasing political realignment and public dissatisfaction, as stakeholders look towards potential candidates capable of shaping Nigeria’s future.
With the 2027 elections still some time away, the coming months are expected to witness intensified lobbying, coalition-building, and strategic manoeuvring across the political spectrum.
