Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has opened up about the emotional toll of his 2015 election loss, describing it as one of the most challenging moments of his career. Jonathan shared his experience during the Raymond Dokpesi Annual Diamond Lecture in Abuja, held to honor the late media icon and founder of Daar Communications, Raymond Dokpesi.
Jonathan, who served as president from 2010 to 2015, became the first sitting Nigerian president to lose a re-election bid when he was defeated by Muhammadu Buhari. Recalling the aftermath, he said, “It is not easy to lose an election as a president. You will think the whole world is against you.” Despite the loss, Jonathan made headlines for his graceful concession, calling Buhari to offer congratulations even before the final results were confirmed.
The former president noted that Dokpesi played a significant role in helping him navigate the difficult period. Dokpesi offered personal support, encouraging Jonathan to look beyond the immediate setback and to focus on his life as a private citizen. “Dokpesi invited me before I handed over, congratulated me, and encouraged me to look beyond the election,” Jonathan said, explaining that this advice gave him spiritual and emotional strength.
Jonathan later shared more about his journey in his memoir, My Transition Hours, where he reflected on his time in office and the process of moving forward after his loss.
The event also featured remarks from Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, who emphasized the importance of responsible free speech. Mohammed praised Dokpesi’s contributions to media and nation-building and urged the media to continue its vital role in shaping public opinion with balanced reporting.
Dokpesi, a pioneering figure in Nigerian broadcasting, passed away in May 2023, leaving behind a legacy of resilience and commitment to media freedom in Nigeria.
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