Wike urges respect for former President Jonathan amid calls for him to run again.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has rejected speculation that former President Goodluck Jonathan will re‑enter politics in the 2027 general election.

Speaking at his monthly media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike said that no politician is being pressured or persuaded by the public to run. He added that aspirants normally signal their intention to contest before receiving support.

According to the FCT minister, a candidate is never drafted into an election race without first indicating a willingness to run. He argued that stories suggesting political figures are being coaxed by the public are often misleading.

Wike maintained that those who ultimately contest elections usually have already expressed interest, either directly or indirectly, before supporters begin mobilising around them.

He said: “You don’t go and bring somebody to run. Somebody will say I prefer to run and come and talk to you. Nobody sits there to say I mean… nobody comes to you. 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.”

“Did Jonathan ever express interest? He’s a former President and people should respect him. Nobody knows a candidate by body language.”