Political tension rose on Friday after supporters of former President Goodluck Jonathan declared that he would contest the 2027 presidential election.
Although Jonathan has not officially accepted the proposal, members of the coalition backing him said he would soon announce his decision.
Speaking on ARISE TV, the Convener of the Coalition for Jonathan and member of the African Democratic Congress, Tom Ohikere, said the former president would speak within the next two days.
In addition, Ohikere dismissed claims that Jonathan’s recent statement about the presidency being “not a computer game” showed a lack of interest in the race.
According to him, Jonathan only wanted Nigerians to understand that running for president requires planning, consultations, and strong national support.
“He meant that the process is serious and demanding,” Ohikere explained.
Despite the uncertainty, he insisted that Jonathan would appear on the ballot.
However, Ohikere admitted that Jonathan had not yet accepted the coalition’s request.
Meanwhile, the coalition has intensified efforts to convince the former president to return to active politics ahead of the 2027 general election.
Supporters believe Jonathan’s return could unite different political groups and reduce tension across the country.
Furthermore, the ADC has continued to position itself as the platform for Jonathan’s possible presidential bid as opposition parties regroup for the next election cycle.
However, legal questions still surround Jonathan’s eligibility to contest the election. A case before the Federal High Court seeks clarification on whether another presidential bid would violate the term limit provisions in the 1999 Constitution.
Jonathan served as president from 2010 to 2015 before losing the 2015 election to Muhammadu Buhari.
He later received praise from local and international observers after conceding defeat before the final election results were announced.
