GOODLUCK JONATHAN ADVOCATES FOR A “GALLERY OF GUILT” TO EXPOSE NIGERIA’S WRONGDOERS

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Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan has proposed that Nigeria construct two enormous edifices in Abuja to exhibit portraits of individuals who have significantly contributed to the nation’s predicaments. He asserted that such an initiative would serve as a historical reminder, ensuring that future generations acknowledge the detrimental roles their ancestors played in shaping the country’s misfortunes.

While addressing attendees at the unveiling of a book authored by former Inspector General of Police, Solomon Arase, in Abuja on Tuesday, Jonathan denounced Nigerians for their tendency to condone and even glorify unethical leadership.

He maintained that unless citizens collectively repudiate misconduct and poor governance, political figures will persist in acting irresponsibly.

“Nigerians have a habit of exalting the wrong values,” Jonathan declared. “I believe a day will come when we attain a level where people will no longer tolerate immoral behavior. When that moment arrives, these issues will become a thing of the past.”

Elaborating on his vision, he proposed, “Perhaps someday, we’ll have two vast structures in Abuja where we’ll showcase images of individuals—whether deceased or still living—who have contributed to this country’s deterioration. This way, their descendants will recognize the adverse impact their forebears had on Nigeria.”

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OPPOSING MILITARY INVOLVEMENT IN ELECTORAL PROCESSES

Jonathan also vehemently opposed deploying armed forces personnel for electoral duties, contending that it places undue strain on the military. He asserted that election security should primarily be the responsibility of the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

“Having previously served as President, I deeply understand the significance of internal security, especially concerning elections. It is a matter that profoundly concerns me,” he remarked.

He referenced examples from other African nations, such as Botswana and Senegal, where military interference in elections is minimal. In Botswana, for instance, law enforcement officers oversee election security, while the military focuses on safeguarding government establishments. Likewise, in Senegal, electoral officials manage polling stations, with police officers positioned outside, intervening only if necessary.

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PETER OBI HIGHLIGHTS LEADERSHIP INTEGRITY IN ELECTORAL CREDIBILITY

Speaking at the same occasion, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential aspirant, Peter Obi, emphasized that the authenticity of elections is predominantly determined by the honesty of those supervising the process.

Drawing from personal experience, Obi recounted how he ensured a transparent election in his state during Jonathan’s tenure.

“I have witnessed a genuinely free and fair electoral process,” he stated. “During my second term as governor, I approached President Jonathan and said, ‘Mr. President, I do not want a single vote that does not rightfully belong to me. Let the election be conducted transparently.’”

Obi also recalled an incident where Jonathan intervened after affiliates of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) attempted to meddle in his state’s elections.

“I remember when certain PDP members encroached into my state. I contacted Jonathan and said, ‘Mr. President, I am in my hometown. I do not want any external interference in my state.’ Within moments, he made a call, and those individuals departed immediately,” he disclosed.

According to Obi, electoral authenticity is directly linked to the morality of political leaders. He further asserted that tackling corruption among public officeholders would trigger a ripple effect, fostering enhanced security and more effective law enforcement.

“If we desire genuine security, we must first eradicate corruption among public administrators. When leaders cease embezzling, criminals and even law enforcement officers will follow suit. Ensuring a credible election process is straightforward when those in charge are not scheming to manipulate the results,” he concluded.