Former President Goodluck Jonathan has raised renewed alarm over the direction of Nigeria’s democratic journey, cautioning that the political climate is increasingly being polluted by reckless conduct, hostility and a decline in statesmanship among political actors.
Jonathan delivered the warning during the 10th anniversary dinner of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation held in Abuja, an event that also coincided with his 68th birthday. The high-profile gathering drew prominent African leaders, diplomats, former presidents, scholars and policymakers who convened to discuss governance, peacebuilding and democracy across the continent.
In his address, Jonathan said Nigeria’s political space is being “suffocated” by behaviours that undermine civility, weaken public trust and threaten national stability. He stressed that politics must not become a battlefield for rascally conduct or personal vendettas, warning that such practices erode the foundation of democracy.
According to him, responsible leadership remains essential to building a stable nation. He argued that political progress becomes impossible when leaders reject accountability, disrespect institutions or embrace hostility instead of restraint. Jonathan noted that a toxic political environment discourages citizen participation and undermines the credibility of democratic processes.
“Politics is not for rascals,” he declared, insisting that leaders must uphold values that promote unity, tolerance and national cohesion. He urged officeholders to demonstrate maturity, adding that democracy thrives only when political players behave with dignity and respect for the rule of law.
Jonathan also expressed concern over the rising wave of insecurity throughout the country. He cited increasing cases of attacks, kidnappings and violent crimes and called for a more decisive and proactive approach to safeguarding lives and property. He said the continued deterioration of security poses a serious threat to development and stability.
Representing President Bola Tinubu at the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima commended Jonathan’s contributions to Nigeria’s democracy. Shettima described Jonathan’s historic decision to concede defeat in the 2015 presidential election as one of the most defining acts of statesmanship that helped preserve the nation during a tense electoral moment. He said Jonathan’s continued advocacy for peace has earned him recognition as one of Africa’s most influential statesmen.
The new National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party and former Minister of Special Duties, Taminu Turaki, also addressed the gathering. He praised the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation for a decade of impactful work in mediation, conflict resolution and democratic strengthening across Africa. Turaki said the foundation’s consistent growth reflects its dedication to promoting stability, peace and good governance on the continent.
The event highlighted Jonathan’s enduring message that democracy requires discipline, integrity and a deep sense of responsibility from political leaders. He warned that unless political actors embrace these values, Nigeria risks allowing negative behaviour to undermine its democratic gains and weaken the institutions meant to protect the nation’s future.
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