Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has shut down ongoing rumors about a potential return of former President Goodluck Jonathan to the presidential race in 2027, explaining that public sentiment alone cannot force any politician to run for office.
Wike cleared the air during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Monday, where he addressed questions regarding the intensifying political chatter that suggests Jonathan might be plotting a comeback for the 2027 general elections.
The minister noted that real political ambitions always start with the individuals themselves.
He pointed out that supporters only begin gathering and mobilizing after a candidate has openly demonstrated a clear interest in vying for a position.
According to him, it is wrong to believe that people are simply pulled into major elections just because the public is demanding it, emphasizing that serious political campaigns only kick off when a person gives a definitive sign of intent.
“You don’t go and bring somebody to run… it is either you have shown signal that you are interested,” he said.
Wike further explained that stories of widespread pressure forcing individuals to run for the presidency are mostly exaggerated.
He insisted that nobody gets involved in a high-stakes presidential race without first indicating their own readiness to join the fray.
“Nobody is sleeping inside and people will say come and run for an election,” he said.
Speaking specifically on the rumors surrounding the former Nigerian leader, Wike emphasized that Jonathan has not made any official or public declaration regarding the 2027 elections.
“Did Jonathan ever express interest? He’s a former President and people should respect him,” he said.
He warned the public against relying on groundless speculation and guesswork regarding people’s political plans, advising that national conversations should center around clear, official declarations rather than unverified rumors or perceived “body language.”
