Former President Goodluck Jonathan made a tremendous sacrifice by admitting defeat in the 2015 general elections, according to Ambassador Simeon Uwah, Executive Secretary of the International Supreme Council for Peace Africa.
Jonathan’s choice, according to Uwah, was one of the most significant turning points in African democracy.
In the 2015 general elections, Jonathan made history by conceding defeat to former President Muhammadu Buhari in a closely contested battle.
Nigerians were taken aback by this extraordinary performance, which also attracted international notice.
Speaking to journalists in Uyo on Monday, precisely ten years after the incident, Uwah highlighted that African presidents who, during turbulent times, decide to hold onto power rather than put peace first may learn a lot from Jonathan’s decision to cede office amicably.
“On March 31, 2015, exactly 10 years ago today, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan made history by conceding defeat to Muhammadu Buhari after a fiercely contested presidential election,” Uwah said. “In an era where political leaders across Africa often resort to violence, electoral disputes, or unconstitutional maneuvers to hold onto power, Jonathan’s concession stands as one of the most defining moments of African democratic maturity. It was a turning point, and Nigeria’s democracy was draped in bright colors.”
Jonathan’s now-famous phone conversation to Buhari to congratulate him, Uwah said, was a conscious show of dedication to peace, democracy, and national stability rather than merely a polite acknowledgement of the election results.
“His phone call to Buhari was not merely a gesture of sportsmanship—it was a purposeful step towards ensuring peace. This single act helped avert post-election violence, saved countless lives, and strengthened Nigeria’s democratic standing on the global stage,” Uwah added.
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He emphasised that Jonathan’s decision should serve as a model for Africa, particularly as the continent continues to face political crises.
“As Africa grapples with military coups, disputed elections, democratic backsliding, and the entrenchment of authoritarian regimes, Jonathan’s approach remains a crucial blueprint for democratic governance and reforms,” Uwah said. “With political instability on the rise across the continent—from Guinea to Sudan, Gabon to Burkina Faso—instituting patriotic and democratic leadership is not just optional, it is imperative. If this direction is not followed, Africa risks facing even greater challenges.”
Jonathan’s now-famous phone conversation to Buhari to congratulate him, Uwah said, was a conscious show of dedication to peace, democracy, and national stability rather than merely a polite acknowledgement of the election results.
“Political transitions should be collaborative, not adversarial,” Uwah urged. “Future leaders must embrace bipartisanship and national reconciliation as core principles of governance.”
He concluded by recalling Jonathan’s words from that pivotal moment: “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.”
Uwah called for African leaders to adopt this mindset—not just in rhetoric but in practice—moving forward.
