Former President Goodluck Jonathan has suggested the construction of two buildings in Abuja to display the pictures of individuals who have contributed to Nigeria’s problems.
Speaking at a public event, Jonathan argued that such an initiative would serve as a historical reference for future generations, ensuring that the descendants of these figures understand the negative roles their forefathers played in shaping Nigeria’s challenges.
According to him, documenting the actions of these individuals would act as a lesson for the younger generation and prevent future leaders from repeating past mistakes.
At the same event, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, emphasized that the credibility of elections depends on the integrity of those in leadership.
Obi recounted his own experience as a governor, highlighting how he ensured a fair electoral process in his state during Jonathan’s administration.
“I have experienced a free and fair election. During my second tenure as governor under President Jonathan, I approached him and said, ‘Mr. President, I don’t want a single vote that doesn’t belong to me. Let the election be free and fair,’” Obi stated.
He also recalled how Jonathan intervened when members of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) attempted to interfere in his state’s elections.
“I have so many people together with me. Even when his own party people, PDP, came to my state, I called him and said, ‘Mr. President, I’m in my village. I don’t want people wandering around in my state,’ and within a few minutes, he called them and they left the state,” he revealed.
Obi further argued that addressing corruption among public officials would have a direct impact on security. He stated that public officials set an example for the rest of society, and if leaders uphold integrity, it will influence institutions, including the police.
“If we want to talk about security, when we stop stealing as public officers, all these criminals equally learn from us, and even policemen will do their work better. Election policing is easy if we have people who are not ready to manipulate the elections,” he concluded.
The event highlighted the ongoing concerns about governance, electoral transparency, and corruption in Nigeria, with calls for leadership reforms to address the country’s challenges.
