Hundreds of youths under the banner of the Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan on Wednesday gathered at his Abuja residence, calling on him to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The rally, held at Taraba Close in the Maitama area of the Federal Capital Territory, caused traffic disruptions as demonstrators chanted slogans, danced, and displayed placards urging the former president to return to active politics.
Messages on the placards included appeals such as “GEJ: Nigeria is dying, save it!” and “GEJ, if you no run, we quench,” reflecting the urgency of their demand.
Leading the protest, the coalition’s National President, Tom Ohikere, said the group had carried out nationwide consultations over six months before organising the rally.
“Everywhere we went, the call for his return was loud and clear. Nigerians want him back to help rescue the country,” he said.
Ohikere described Jonathan as a unifying leader capable of addressing the country’s political and economic challenges, adding that the group would continue its campaign until it receives a response.
“We will keep coming until we get a positive answer,” he added.
The protesters, however, were unable to meet Jonathan, as he was reportedly not at home during the demonstration. He was said to have returned later, after the crowd had dispersed.
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The rally adds to a growing number of calls from political groups and supporters urging Jonathan to re-enter partisan politics ahead of 2027. A similar movement was seen in 2022, when groups even purchased presidential nomination forms on his behalf.
At the time, the move sparked debates about his eligibility, given that he had already completed a full term after succeeding his predecessor. Jonathan eventually declined to run.
Since leaving office in 2015, the former president has largely stayed out of active politics, focusing on diplomacy and election observation roles across Africa. However, recurring calls like Wednesday’s protest suggest that interest in his potential return remains strong.
