Pro-Jonathan group targets nationwide rally ahead of 2027 polls

Nkereuwem Effiong

A socio-political group, the Goodluck Nigeria Movement (GNM), has unveiled plans to organise a nationwide “200 million-man rally” to urge former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election.

The plan was disclosed in a statement issued by the group’s Director of Strategic Communications, Dr Derek Omoleh, following its leadership election, which produced Chief Diekivie Ikiogha as National Chairman and Chief Robert Azibato as National Secretary.

The group argued that Nigeria requires an experienced leader rather than what it described as an “apprentice” to navigate the current economic and political challenges.

According to the statement, the rally is part of a broader “national rescue mission” aimed at persuading Jonathan to return to leadership.

“We remember when Nigeria was the pride of Africa — the largest economy, a hub for global investment, and a place where dreams were attainable. That was the Jonathan era,” the statement read.

It added that citizens across the country — from northern farmers to southern traders — were united in their call for a return to what it described as stability under Jonathan’s administration.

In his inaugural address, Ikiogha said the movement represents “the voice of the hungry, the hope of the unemployed, and the protector of democracy”.

“Nigeria is suffering, and we cannot look away. We have chosen Dr Goodluck Jonathan because he has nothing to prove but everything to offer. The movement starts today; the rescue is certain,” he said.

The group also referenced Jonathan’s well-known stance on peaceful elections, quoting his remark: “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.”

It maintained that his “peace first” philosophy remains critical in addressing the nation’s current divisions.