Former President Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned that Nigeria’s democracy is being “suffocated” by reckless political behaviour, stressing that politics must never be reduced to a platform for unruly conduct. Jonathan stated this on Wednesday at the 10th anniversary dinner of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Abuja, an event that also marked his 68th birthday.
Addressing an audience of African statesmen, diplomats, political figures and business leaders, Jonathan said national progress depends on mutual responsibility between governments and citizens. According to him, no government can succeed without the support of its people, and no society can advance without leadership anchored on clarity, accountability and restraint.
Jonathan warned that aggressive rhetoric and rising hostility in politics were weakening democratic institutions across the continent. “Politics is not for rascals. It is for people who want to build, not destroy,” he said. He explained that his foundation’s work over the past decade—focusing on peacebuilding, mediation and governance reforms—was inspired by his own experiences in office and the need to strengthen democratic norms in Africa.
He also expressed concern over the recent surge in violent attacks and abductions nationwide, urging leaders at all levels to recommit themselves to the protection of citizens while safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic stability.
Tinubu: Jonathan Helped Democracy Stand Firm
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, praised Jonathan’s enduring influence on Nigeria’s democratic development. He described Jonathan’s 2015 concession of defeat as the defining moment of his presidency—an act he said prevented Nigeria from sliding into political crisis.
“The highest point of the Jonathan legacy was when he courageously conceded defeat and saved the nation from a precipice,” Shettima said. He added that Nigeria’s democracy continues to stand because of leaders like Jonathan, who consistently place national interest above personal ambition.
Shettima conveyed President Tinubu’s goodwill and noted that Jonathan’s conduct since leaving office shows that public service continues beyond political tenure, positioning him as one of Africa’s most respected democratic figures.
Foundation Praised for Peacebuilding Role
Newly elected PDP National Chairman and former Minister of Special Duties, Taminu Turaki, also commended the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, describing it as one of Africa’s most credible institutions in mediation, conflict resolution and democratic strengthening. He said the organisation has steadily grown into a continental force for peace and governance reform.
Jonathan’s remarks and the tributes that followed underscored a shared concern: that Nigeria’s democracy is at a critical point—requiring restraint, civility and unwavering commitment from all political actors to preserve the gains of the last two decades.