By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
Former president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has reiterated the need to revisit the resolutions of the 2014 National Conference, which he convened during his presidency.
Speaking in Lagos, yesterday, during a condolence visit to the family of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, he stated that the resolution of the Confab remain highly relevant to Nigeria’s progress.
“The resolutions from the 2014 Confab are still pertinent to Nigeria’s development. We must not let such a valuable effort go to waste. Pa Adebanjo’s legacy reminds us that truth and justice are the foundations of a thriving nation, Jonathan said.
Jonathan dismissed insinuations that the Confab was an attempt to manipulate Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasising that it was a genuine effort to foster national dialogue during a turbulent period in the country’s history.
“I am not the kind of leader who manipulates a nation. At that time, Nigeria was facing significant challenges, and we needed a credible platform for dialogue. The outcomes of the Confab were comprehensive and beneficial to the nation,” he said.
Jonathan acknowledged that many of the Confab participants had more experience than he did, hence he relied on their collective wisdom to ensure productive discussions. He also recalled the political instability of that era, noting how some members of the National Assembly mobilised against his administration, even switching parties in an attempt to undermine his government. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his belief that dialogue was the best path to resolving national issues.
Jonathan who was accompanied by former Sierra Leonean President, Ernest Bai Koroma and former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George on the visit expressed gratitude to the Afenifere leaders for their warm reception. He revealed that while he had already issued a public condolence message, he felt it was essential to visit the family in person to honor Adebanjo’s legacy. Jonathan described Adebanjo as a national icon whose life was dedicated to the progress and well-being of Nigeria.
He urged current and future leaders to uphold the values Pa Adebanjo championed, which are truth, justice, and good governance.
“Pa Adebanjo was a man of immense wisdom, courage, and an unshakable commitment to making Nigeria a better place,” Jonathan said.
former vice president, Atiku Abubakar, was also at the home of the late Adebanjo who he described as a fearless advocate for truth, justice, and national unity.
Atiku stated that the leadership and lifestyle of Adebanjo are ones that should never be compromised.
“Coming here a number of times and listening to his lectures both during the pre-independence and post-independence era, before the elections is something that can never be forgotten,” he said.