Jonathan: Many urging me to run for 2027, lack voter cards, youths must get involved

Former President Goodluck Jonathan says more than half of the Nigerians calling on him to contest the 2027 presidential election do not have Permanent Voter Cards, and has urged young people to back their political demands with active participation.

Jonathan made the remark Thursday in Abuja while addressing supporters and youth groups under the Coalition for Jonathan 2027 who visited him to push for his candidacy.

“If I ask how many of you have your voter cards now, probably 50 per cent of you don’t even have your voter’s card. And you’re asking me to go and contest the election,” he told the crowd.

The former president said patriotism required citizens to engage directly in the democratic process, not just in political discussion.

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“It’s only patriotic citizens that build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation, take the money anywhere to enjoy their lives. So, you must be patriotic,” he stated.

Jonathan stressed that peaceful and credible elections were essential to drawing competent citizens into politics. He warned that without them, many capable Nigerians would stay away from public life.

“The key thing we need in this country is peace. As young people, you must continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections because if we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, most good citizens will not want to get involved in politics,” he said.

He also drew on his experience observing elections in more than 14 African countries, saying strengthening democracy across the continent remained credible.

On the 2027 race itself, Jonathan maintained that he had not made a decision but was taking the calls seriously.

“Presidential race is not a computer game, but I heard you, and I will consult widely,” he said.

The coalition, led by Dr. Tom Ohikere, had earlier renewed its appeal for Jonathan to run, citing the need for experienced leadership to address Nigeria’s challenges.