Jonathan Decries “Rascal” Politics, Warns Nigeria’s Democracy Is Suffocating

|By Adejumo Adekunle

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has condemned the growing wave of unruly political behaviour in Nigeria, warning that the nation’s democracy is being “suffocated” by reckless conduct from political actors.

Speaking on Thursday at the 10th anniversary dinner of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation—an event that also marked his 68th birthday—Jonathan urged political leaders to uphold civility, responsibility and restraint in the nation’s governance.

“Politics is not for rascals. It is for people who want to build, not destroy,” he declared, cautioning that the rising trend of hostile rhetoric and aggressive behaviour is weakening democratic resilience across Africa.

The ceremony drew a distinguished audience of African statesmen, diplomats, political leaders and business figures.

Jonathan recounted the motivation behind establishing his foundation, noting that its decade-long work has focused on diplomacy, governance reforms, peacebuilding, mediation and strengthening democratic institutions.

He also lamented the increasing wave of violent attacks and abductions nationwide, challenging leaders at every level to take their duty to citizens more seriously by protecting lives and safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic order.