Why Jonathan has stayed out of politics

• Ex-President cites WAEF rules

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has explained that his membership in the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) is a key reason behind his absence from active, partisan politics in recent years.
Jonathan, who marked both his 68th birthday and the 10th anniversary of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) in Abuja on Monday, told guests that the forum’s strict non-partisan mandate precludes him from engaging in political activities.
“The condition to be a member of the WAEF is that you must no longer be an active politician,” Jonathan said during his speech at the anniversary event, which also featured a gala dinner.
“And that is why I have disappointed many of my political associates. They expect me to play an active role in politics, but before I do, I will first and foremost resign from the WAEF.”
Jonathan emphasised that WAEF’s primary mission is to mediate during election periods to prevent violence and crises.
“We don’t just observe the elections; we intervene if we notice any issues that might escalate into conflict,” he explained.
WAEF, made up of former heads of state from across West Africa, aims to stabilise the region by using its members’ influence to prevent electoral violence.

Shifting Focus: From Politics to Democracy Advocacy
Jonathan, who became a symbol of democratic integrity after conceding defeat in the 2015 elections, also reflected on the broader state of Nigerian politics. He lamented the lack of basic training for many politicians, stressing that politics should be treated as a profession that demands responsibility and competence. “We must see politics as the business of responsible individuals,” he said.
He also condemned the recent kidnapping of 25 girls in Kebbi State, drawing a painful parallel to the infamous Chibok schoolgirls’ abduction during his tenure.
“This is a reminder of the dark period in our history. We must pray for the safe return of the victims and work toward ending such tragedies in the future,” Jonathan said.
At the event, the former president detailed the origins of his foundation, explaining how businessman Tony Elumelu suggested he create an organisation focused on promoting democracy. Despite his background in environmental protection, Jonathan said he decided to focus the foundation’s work on democracy and governance, areas where he had earned international recognition.
The GJF has focused on advancing democratic values, election mediation, and peace-building across Africa. The foundation’s Executive Director, Ann Iyonu,
highlighted its decade-long impact in strengthening democratic institutions and fostering inclusive governance.
“Through strategic advocacy, we’ve helped to ensure peaceful transitions and contributed to preventing violent extremism across the continent,” Iyonu said.
Under the GJF’s leadership, the foundation has pioneered initiatives that bring together voices from across Africa to reflect on and rejuvenate democratic practices. Iyonu noted that the foundation’s annual democracy dialogues, launched in 2021, have become vital forums for discussing critical issues like the future of democracy.
“In Accra this year, we explored the theme, ‘Why Democracies Die,’ an essential conversation on the structural factors undermining democratic resilience, both within Africa and globally,” she said.
The foundation has also been instrumental in promoting the security of African states and their citizens, advancing the rule of law, and fostering collaboration between governments and civil society.
“We are proud of our work in fostering peace and promoting human rights through policy dialogues and strategic partnerships,” Iyonu added.
Reflecting on his journey, Jonathan reiterated his belief that effective governance must be built on principles of peace, democracy, and human rights.
As political tensions continue to rise in Nigeria and across the African continent, Jonathan’s words underscored the urgency for a more responsible and well-trained political class that prioritises the welfare of citizens above personal or partisan interests.
“Politics should not be a game of power but a platform for improving people’s lives,” Jonathan concluded, emphasising the need for a more inclusive, democratic future for Africa.