Abuja: Former President Goodluck Jonathan has disclosed that his engagement with the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) is a significant factor in his withdrawal from active and partisan politics. Jonathan shared this insight during an event in Abuja commemorating the 10th anniversary of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), under the theme ‘Legacy of Impact, Celebrating Our Journey.’
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event featured a gala dinner celebrating Jonathan’s 68th birthday. Explaining his absence from active politics, Jonathan emphasized that WAEF membership requires non-partisanship. The forum is designed as a preventive diplomacy initiative, where former heads of state engage with countries in the sub-region during elections to mediate and avert crises stemming from poorly managed elections.
Jonathan elaborated, “The idea is yes, we observe the elections, but we are not co-observers. We go there to make sure that if we notice anything that is coming up negatively; we intervene and try to see what we could do so that those issues will not snowball into full crisis.” He clarified that one condition of WAEF membership is the cessation of active political involvement, which has disappointed many of his political associates.
Discussing the political climate, Jonathan urged politicians to maintain decorum and responsibility, contrasting politics with professions like teaching that require formal training and certification. He called for a transformation in the political landscape, urging individuals to approach politics with a sense of responsibility.
Touching on national issues, Jonathan condemned the kidnapping of approximately 25 girls in Kebbi, linking it to the Chibok girls’ abduction during his presidency. He expressed condolences to the affected families and called for prayers for the swift rescue of the abductees.
Reflecting on the inception of GJF post-2015 election loss, Jonathan credited businessman Tony Elumelu for proposing the foundation’s creation. While he initially considered focusing on education and poverty alleviation, advisers recommended concentrating on democracy, given his global recognition for strengthening the electoral commission and conceding defeat before the conclusion of the 2015 elections.
Jonathan shared that despite his background in environmental protection, he chose to focus the foundation on democracy and governance. Executive Director of GJF, Ms. Ann Iyonu, highlighted the event as a reflection on a decade of commitment to democratic governance, peacebuilding, and development across Africa.
Iyonu noted that the foundation has worked to strengthen democratic institutions through election mediation, policy dialogues, and strategic advocacy. She emphasized the growth of the forum’s annual democracy dialogue, which has become a crucial platform for discussing and strategizing democracy’s renewal.
She further detailed the foundation’s efforts in fostering peaceful political transitions, promoting governance, and advancing peace and security through research and collaborative initiatives. The foundation has expanded its global reach, partnering with international organizations and amplifying African voices worldwide.