Former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has stated that he does not hold grudges against anyone over past actions against him, emphasizing that forgiveness and reconciliation are crucial for political stability and national development.1
Jonathan made the remarks in Abuja during a requiem mass in honor of the late Chief Audu Ogbeh, a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).2 He described Ogbeh as a man of humility and forgiveness, whose attitude to life mirrored his own.3
“Chief Ogbeh was a man who did not seek revenge. He believed the past should be left behind and that we must keep moving forward4,” Jonathan said. “In that sense, he was just like me. If you hurt me today, I will forgive you. I don’t carry grudges against anybody. I believe the past is past, and I move on.”
This statement is consistent with Jonathan’s public persona and past declarations. He is often praised for his peaceful handover of power in 2015, a move that was widely seen as a significant act of statesmanship that helped to stabilize Nigeria’s democracy.
Jonathan’s comments also come at a time when Nigeria’s political landscape is often characterized by intense rivalries and personal animosities. His call for politicians to emulate the values of humility, forgiveness, and unity is seen by many as a timely and necessary message for the nation’s political class.
