Group begs Goodluck Jonathan to run in 2027, proposes single-term deal

A political advocacy group, Goodluck Nigeria, has appealed to former President Goodluck Jonathan to return to power in the 2027 general elections, proposing that he serve only a single term of four years to “reset” the country.

In a press statement issued by the group, Nigeria is currently facing severe economic and security challenges, which it believes require experienced leadership to address within a limited timeframe.

The group argued that economic conditions have deteriorated significantly over the years, citing the sharp depreciation of the naira against the dollar as a key concern.

According to the statement, the exchange rate stood at about ₦160 to one dollar during Jonathan’s administration but has since risen dramatically, reflecting deeper economic issues.

Speaking to reporters in Lagos, the group’s leader, Emma Umerah, praised Jonathan’s record in office, particularly his peaceful concession of defeat in the 2015 presidential election.

“When Goodluck was in power, things were relatively stable and affordable. He demonstrated statesmanship by conceding defeat even before the final announcement.

That is the kind of leadership Nigeria needs again,” Umerah said.

He added, “What we have now is hardship. We are asking him to return and offer four years of good leadership to reset what we describe as years of decline.”

The group has given the former president until May 29, 2026, to make his decision. It further suggested that if Jonathan declines to contest, he should endorse a credible candidate willing to commit to a single four-year term.

“We respect the Constitution and the judiciary, but Nigerians deserve competent leadership by 2027—whether through Jonathan himself or through a candidate he supports,” Umerah stated.

He also claimed that the group commands a nationwide membership base of about 10 million people, adding that its members would support only a candidate endorsed by Jonathan, provided such a candidate publicly commits to serving just one term.

“Our position is clear: if he won’t run, he should anoint someone who will. That person must also sign a commitment to serve only four years,” he said.

The group expressed confidence that meaningful reforms could be achieved within a single term, including stabilising the naira, improving security, ensuring a steady electricity supply, and conducting credible elections.

“We believe four years is enough to turn things around, crash the dollar, tackle insecurity, provide stable power, and strengthen democratic institutions before leaving office,” Umerah added.

The call comes amid early political alignments and growing discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders across the country weighing options for leadership and national direction.