Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has downplayed speculation surrounding a possible return of former President Goodluck Jonathan to the presidential race in 2027, insisting that no serious politician is persuaded into contesting elections without first showing interest.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Monday, Wike dismissed claims that political leaders are often drafted by the public to seek elective office, describing such narratives as misleading.
The former Rivers State governor argued that politicians who eventually contest elections typically signal their intentions beforehand, either openly or behind the scenes, before supporters begin rallying around them.
“You don’t go and bring somebody to run. Somebody will say I prefer to run and come and talk to you,” Wike stated.
He maintained that political ambitions do not emerge solely from public pressure, noting that aspirants usually indicate their willingness to contest before any mobilisation efforts begin.
“When you hear sometimes politicians say people want me to come out, nobody wants anybody to come out.
Nobody is sleeping inside and people will say come and run for an election. It’s either you have shown signal that you are interested,” he said.
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Commenting specifically on Jonathan, Wike questioned whether the former president had made any indication that he intends to seek office again.
“Did Jonathan ever express interest? He’s a former President and people should respect him. Nobody knows a candidate by body language,” the minister added.
Wike’s remarks come amid growing speculation over Jonathan’s political future following reports that some political groups and party factions have expressed interest in drafting him into the 2027 presidential contest.
The former president has, however, not publicly declared any intention to run for office, and his political plans remain uncertain.
The FCT minister’s comments underscore the increasing political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general election, as parties and political actors continue consultations and alignments across the country.