Ambassador Simeon Uwah, the Executive Secretary of the International Supreme Council for Peace Africa, has emphasized the significant dedication shown by ex-President Goodluck Jonathan when he accepted his loss in the 2015 national elections.
Uwah characterized Jonathan’s choice as a pivotal instance of democratic growth in Africa.
In the 2015 general elections, Jonathan created history by admitting loss to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari in a highly competitive contest.
This never-before-seen action left Nigerians astonished and grabbed the global spotlight.
On Monday, during an interview with reporters in Uyo, precisely ten years following the incident, Uwah highlighted that Jonathan’s choice to relinquish power calmly offers a significant example for African leaders. These leaders often opt to maintain their grip on authority when faced with crises instead of placing peace above all else.
On March 31, 2015, precisely a decade ago, ex-Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan created history by acknowledging his loss to Muhammadu Buhari following a highly competitive presidential poll,” stated Uwah. “During an age when many African political figures frequently turn to aggression, contest elections through dispute, or use unlawful methods to retain control, Jonathan’s gesture of acceptance exemplifies one of the paramount instances of matured democracy in Africa. This act marked a significant shift, with Nigeria’s democratic journey being painted in vivid hues.
Uwah also pointed out that Jonathan’s well-known telephone call to Buhari to extend his congratulations was not merely an act of polite recognition of the electoral outcome.
This was an intentional dedication to tranquility, democratic principles, and the nation’s equilibrium.
“His telephone conversation with Buhari wasn’t just an act of good sportsmanship; it was a deliberate move aimed at promoting peace. This one action prevented potential post-election violence, protected numerous lives, and bolstered Nigeria’s position as a democracy on the international scene,” Uwah emphasized.
He stressed that Jonathan’s choice ought to be seen as an example for Africa, especially considering the ongoing political turmoil across the continent.
As Africa contends with military uprisings, contentious elections, erosion of democracy, and the solidification of autocratic rule, Jonathan’s strategy continues to serve as an essential framework for effective democratic management and reform,” stated Uwah. “Given the escalating political unrest from countries like Guinea to Sudan, and from Gabon to Burkina Faso, fostering nationalist and democratic leadership is not merely a choice but a necessity. Without adhering to this path, Africa could confront far more severe issues.
Uwah also proposed that Jonathan’s calm concession should serve as a case study in courses on governance and leadership training for African leaders.
He urged the African Union and ECOWAS to establish peaceful transfers of power and leadership changes as standard practices to protect democracy across the continent from collapsing.
Political transitions ought to be cooperative rather than confrontational,” Uwah emphasized. “Upcoming leaders should adopt bipartisan approaches and foster national reconciliation as fundamental tenets of leadership.
He ended his speech by quoting Jonathan from that crucial instance: “My ambition does not merit the blood of any Nigerian.”
Uwah called for African leaders to adopt this mindset—not just in rhetoric but in practice—moving forward.
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