‘Nigeria’s Democracy Suffocating Under Reckless Politics’ – Ex-President Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned against turning politics into a playground for unruly behaviour, warning that Nigeria’s democracy is being weakened by what he described as rising political rascality.

Jonathan spoke on Thursday at the 10th anniversary dinner of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, an event which also marked his 68th birthday. The gathering brought together African statesmen, diplomats, political leaders and captains of industry.

“Politics is not for rascals. It is for people who want to build, not destroy,” Jonathan declared, stressing that leadership must be rooted in responsibility, civility and nation-building.

The former president lamented the increasing deployment of aggressive rhetoric and hostile conduct by political actors, warning that such patterns “suffocate democratic stability” both in Nigeria and across Africa.

According to him, sustaining a functional democracy requires accountability and restraint from all who hold public office.

Jonathan reflected on the circumstances that led to the establishment of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, noting that the organisation’s work over the past decade has centred on diplomacy, mediation, peacebuilding, governance reforms and strengthening democratic institutions.

He said the continent needs more platforms dedicated to conflict resolution and the promotion of democratic values.

Jonathan also expressed concern over the recent wave of violent attacks and abductions across the country, describing them as a threat to national stability.

He urged leaders at all levels to prioritise the protection of citizens.

He said leaders must “take their responsibility to the people more seriously and safeguard the nation’s democratic order,” insisting that insecurity undermines both governance and democratic growth.

The anniversary dinner closed with renewed calls for political maturity, stability and a deeper commitment to nation-building.