Nigerian youths and several civil society organizations on Wednesday gathered at the Abuja residence of former President Goodluck Jonathan, urging him to contest in the 2027 presidential election.

The demonstrators occupied parts of the capital, chanting slogans and holding placards that called on the former leader to return to power. Some of the messages read, “GEJ: Nigeria is dying, save it!” and “GEJ, Nigerian youths have forgiven you.” Another placard warned, “GEJ, if you don’t run, we will lose hope.”

Speaking during the protest, public affairs analyst and former Kogi State Commissioner for Information, Tom Ohikere, said the group had waited for over three hours in hopes of meeting Jonathan, but he did not appear.

“Throughout our nationwide consultations over the past six months, the call for his return to leadership to help rescue the country has been strong and unmistakable,” he said.

As of the time of reporting, Jonathan has not issued any official response to the calls.

The demonstration reflects growing pressure from various groups within Nigeria and in the diaspora urging the former president to join the 2027 race.

This development comes amid ongoing internal challenges within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Members and supporters of the opposition party also staged a protest at the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), demanding a reversal of the delisting of the David Mark-led leadership.

The renewed wave of political activity signals increasing momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.