Former President Goodluck Jonathan has revealed why his administration did not implement the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference, citing political turbulence at the time.
Jonathan made this known on Sunday during a condolence visit to the family of the late Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, in Lagos.
The former president was accompanied by former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma, former PDP Deputy National Chairman Chief Olabode George, and other political figures.
Speaking at the event, Jonathan acknowledged the role of the late Adebanjo in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape and emphasized the relevance of the conference’s recommendations.
“A number of people have kept asking why I did not implement the recommendations of the conference. Most Nigerians do not know that there was a lot of political turbulence in the country at that period,” he said.
Jonathan explained that a key legislator from his party had defected, while some individuals were determined to bring his administration down.
“It was not the time we could present such a document. Thank God for everything. We believe that one day, one government will review it and take everything,” he stated.
He stressed that the recommendations were made by credible Nigerians without political bias, adding, “We believe the outcomes are still very relevant for our society.”
The condolence visit was also attended by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who described Adebanjo as a great leader and a symbol of unity.
“It is quite true that this house has hosted me a couple of times. I took away from this house virtues that Pa Adebanjo stood for and preached all his life,” Atiku said.
He noted that Adebanjo’s passing was a significant loss to both his family and the nation.
“It is my singular honour and privilege to identify with his immediate family at this difficult time. We thank God that he lived a worthy life.
“We are here to condole with the family to let them know that we share in the loss because he was also a father to us. He was an adviser and a guide in what we are set to do for this country,” Atiku added.
Later in the evening, Jonathan, Atiku, and other dignitaries, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki, attended a dinner organized by former President Olusegun Obasanjo at The Delborough Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
