Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan Reflects on Emotional Journey Following 2015 Election Loss
In a heartfelt address delivered at the inaugural Raymond Dokpesi Annual Diamond Lecture held in Abuja on October 25, 2024, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan opened up about the emotional turmoil he faced after his defeat in the 2015 presidential election.
This event, hosted by Daar Communications in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), also honored the memory of Raymond Dokpesi, the media mogul and founder of DAAR Communications, who passed away in May 2023.
Jonathan’s revelations at the lecture offered unique insights into the challenging yet transformative phase in his political journey, resonating with Nigerians who still remember the historic election of 2015.
The 2015 presidential election marked a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic history. It was the first time an incumbent president was defeated at the polls, leading to a peaceful transfer of power between political parties.
The People's Democratic Party (PDP), which had held power since the end of military rule in 1999, lost to the All Progressives Congress (APC) led by Muhammadu Buhari. Jonathan’s decision to concede even before the final results were officially announced was hailed as a noble and selfless act, one that prioritized Nigeria’s stability over personal or political ambition.
In his speech, Jonathan revisited this experience, underscoring the weight of the decision and the deep personal emotions that accompanied it. He noted, “Losing an election is always difficult, but the peaceful concession I made was a choice I believed would help solidify our democratic principles.”
During his address, Jonathan described the aftermath of the election as a period of introspection and emotional turmoil. The former president admitted to the difficulty of accepting defeat but shared that he felt an overwhelming duty to maintain peace and unity within the country.
“Leadership is about sacrifice,” he explained. “As much as it pained me to lose, I could not let my own feelings and interests stand in the way of Nigeria’s democracy.” Jonathan highlighted the importance of prioritizing national interest over personal setbacks and said he had learned valuable lessons in humility and resilience during this time.
He went on to recount moments of doubt, sorrow, and disappointment but emphasized that the experience deepened his faith in the power of democracy. By making a peaceful concession, he believed he contributed to Nigeria’s growth and encouraged the youth to approach leadership with a sense of service.
The event also paid tribute to the late Raymond Dokpesi, a prominent figure in Nigerian media, business, and politics. Dokpesi, who passed away in May 2023, was a pioneer in Nigeria’s broadcast industry. His groundbreaking work with DAAR Communications, including the establishment of Africa Independent Television (AIT) and Ray Power FM, helped reshape the Nigerian media landscape.
Goodluck Jonathan acknowledged Dokpesi’s immense contributions and expressed gratitude for the platform DAAR Communications provided over the years. He shared memories of his interactions with Dokpesi and praised him as a man committed to advancing democracy and free speech in Nigeria. “Raymond was a true patriot and a visionary,” Jonathan remarked. “His legacy lives on, and we, as a nation, owe him a debt of gratitude for the foundations he laid.”
The lecture, organized by DAAR Communications and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), reflected on Dokpesi’s vision of an independent media that informs and educates the Nigerian public. Many attendees, including journalists, politicians, and youth leaders, were moved by Jonathan’s tribute to Dokpesi’s enduring impact.
One of the most impactful moments of Jonathan’s speech was his message on peaceful leadership and resilience. He urged leaders to always prioritize peace, even during times of conflict or disagreement. “Power is transient,” he said, “but the peace and prosperity of a nation are enduring.”
Jonathan’s concession in 2015 was a testament to this belief, as he famously stated, “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.” This mantra resonated across Nigeria and beyond, influencing many political leaders to adopt peaceful approaches to leadership and dispute resolution.
The former president spoke directly to Nigerian youths, advising them to embrace leadership not as a means of personal gain but as a service to the people. He expressed hope that future leaders would uphold the principles of peace, integrity, and sacrifice, adding, “The future of our country rests on the shoulders of those willing to serve selflessly.”
As he closed his address, Jonathan shared his hopes for Nigeria’s future, calling for unity, resilience, and innovation among Nigerians. He encouraged leaders and citizens alike to foster a spirit of togetherness that transcends political affiliations or ethnic divisions. Jonathan expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its current challenges if people were united in their vision of a prosperous, democratic nation.
Reflecting on the challenges Nigeria faces, he noted the importance of education, economic empowerment, and equal opportunities for all Nigerians.
He highlighted the need to engage youth in politics and provide platforms for young leaders to contribute to the nation’s growth. “Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity and the resilience of its people,” he said. “If we channel this energy into constructive change, our nation can rise to great heights.”
Jonathan urged the Nigerian government to focus on building strong democratic institutions, safeguarding human rights, and fostering economic growth that benefits all citizens. He called for transparency in governance and accountability from both the government and citizens to create a society where justice and equity thrive.
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