By: Joy Musa
In a bold display of political nostalgia and public appeal, hundreds of supporters gathered in Maiduguri under the banner of the ‘Bring Back Our Goodluck’ movement, calling on former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to contest in the next presidential election and “rescue Nigeria from its current challenges.”
The rally, held at Ramat Square, drew youth groups, civil society advocates, and community leaders from across Borno State, many of whom carried placards bearing messages such as “Jonathan, Nigeria Needs You Again,” “Rescue Our Future,” and “Leadership with a Human Face.”
Organizers of the movement said the gathering was a response to growing national concerns over insecurity, economic hardship, and perceived leadership failures. “We are here to send a clear message: Nigeria needs a unifier, a democrat, and a leader with a proven track record of peace and progress. That leader is Dr. Goodluck Jonathan,” said Musa Bukar, one of the coordinators.
Speakers at the event praised Jonathan’s legacy, citing his commitment to electoral reforms, peaceful governance, and national unity. Many attendees expressed frustration with the current state of affairs, particularly in the North-East, which continues to grapple with insurgency and underdevelopment.
“We remember a time when dialogue was prioritized over division, when our voices mattered, and when the economy was more stable. We want that era back,” said Fatima Ali, a student activist.
While former President Jonathan has not publicly declared any intention to return to politics, the movement’s momentum reflects a growing sentiment among some Nigerians who view his administration as a period of relative stability.
Political analysts say the rally could signal a shift in grassroots mobilization ahead of the 2027 elections, especially if similar calls emerge in other regions.
As chants of “Bring Back Our Goodluck” echoed through Maiduguri, the rally underscored a deep yearning for leadership that many believe can restore hope and unity in Nigeria.
