Former President Jonathan Blames Political Turmoil for 2024 Confab Delay
By Ibrahim Umar,
Kanempress News,
3rd,March,2025
Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, revealed that political turbulence during his administration prevented the implementation of the 2014 National Conference report. Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of late Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Jonathan expressed that the political climate at the time was too unstable to present such recommendations, despite the importance of the document.
Jonathan, who was accompanied by Sierra Leone’s ex-President Ernest Bai Koroma and other political figures, described Adebanjo as a leader not only of Afenifere but of the entire country. He lauded Adebanjo’s wisdom, courage, and unwavering commitment to truth and justice, stating that the late leader’s contributions were pivotal in the establishment of the National Conference.
In response to questions about why the recommendations from the 2014 National Conference were not adopted, Jonathan explained that the political situation at the time, marked by opposition from key members of his party and attempts to undermine his administration, made it difficult to implement the proposals. He emphasized that many of the contributors to the conference were credible Nigerians, and he believed the report remains highly relevant for Nigeria’s future.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also paid a visit to the Adebanjo family, recalling the late Afenifere leader’s impact on Nigeria’s unity and peaceful coexistence. He expressed admiration for Adebanjo’s unwavering dedication to truth and shared his commitment to honoring Adebanjo’s legacy.
In his remarks, Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo, the late leader’s son, expressed gratitude to Jonathan for initiating the National Conference and giving his father a platform to contribute meaningfully. Ayo-Adebanjo also extended condolences to Jonathan on the passing of another prominent leader, Chief Edwin Clark, who died just days after Adebanjo.
The visits highlighted the deep respect for Adebanjo’s leadership and the ongoing efforts by Nigerian political figures to honor his memory and the contributions of the 2014 National Conference to the nation’s progress.
