A nationwide movement has officially called upon former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election, citing a desperate need to stabilize the country’s economy and security. During a spirited rally at the former president’s office in Abuja on Wednesday, the Coalition for Goodluck Ebele Jonathan declared that after a six-month nationwide consultation, the clamor for his return has become “unmistakable.”
Tom Ohikere, the National President of the coalition, described the appeal as a direct mandate from millions of citizens. He framed Goodluck Jonathan—who served as commander-in-chief from 2010 to 2015—as a seasoned “bridge-builder” capable of healing deep-seated regional and ethnic divisions. The group highlighted the former leader’s past economic performance, drawing sharp contrasts between current market prices and the exchange rates and food costs experienced during his administration.
Supporting the call, the coalition’s National Secretary, Jibril Mustapha, pointed to the rising tide of hunger and insecurity, particularly in Northern Nigeria, as the primary motivation for the movement. He argued that Jonathan’s “milk of human kindness” and proven democratic credentials—notably his decision to concede the 2015 election before results were finalized—make him the ideal candidate to unify a fractured nation.
While the former president was not present to receive the group in person and has yet to issue a formal response, the coalition remains undeterred. Leaders like Amodu Abacha noted that the return of former leaders to power is a growing global trend, citing examples from the United States and Ghana. The group has pledged to mobilize a massive grassroots campaign across all 36 states and the FCT the moment Jonathan decides to “throw his hat in the ring.”
Do you think a return to past leadership is the right solution for Nigeria’s current economic and security challenges?
