Goodlock Jonathan
PicNews
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has strongly denied ever accusing former President Muhammadu Buhari of having any connections to the Boko Haram terrorist group. In a detailed clarification, Jonathan described the circulating reports suggesting he had linked Buhari to Boko Haram as completely false, misleading, and deliberately concocted to misrepresent his earlier statements about the fight against terrorism during his tenure. He said it was unfortunate that some individuals and media outlets continue to twist his past comments to score political points or create unnecessary tension between him and the former president.
Jonathan explained that throughout his presidency, his priority was ensuring the protection of lives and property and maintaining Nigeria’s territorial integrity against the menace of Boko Haram, which had caused immense suffering in the northeast and disrupted social and economic life in the region. He emphasized that his government took decisive steps to confront the insurgents, including strengthening the armed forces, establishing regional cooperation with neighbouring countries, and seeking international support to defeat terrorism.
The former president stressed that he never at any point accused any political figure or group of being behind Boko Haram, as his administration focused on solutions rather than blame. He said it would be counterproductive to politicize issues of national security or assign guilt without evidence, insisting that he has always believed that terrorism is a global challenge that must be confronted collectively by all citizens, regardless of political or ethnic affiliations.
Jonathan lamented that false narratives continue to circulate years after he left office, sometimes resurfacing close to election periods or during heightened political tensions. He urged Nigerians to be vigilant and not allow themselves to be manipulated by propaganda or divisive rhetoric aimed at undermining peace and unity. According to him, those spreading misinformation are doing a disservice to the country and its democracy by attempting to rewrite history for personal or partisan gain.
He also praised the efforts of successive governments, including that of Buhari, in continuing the fight against insurgency and maintaining regional stability. Jonathan said his respect for Buhari as a fellow leader remains intact, noting that both of them, despite political differences, share a deep concern for Nigeria’s peace and progress. He encouraged collaboration among all past and present leaders to exchange ideas and work together toward ending insecurity in all forms across the country.
Jonathan reiterated his belief that Nigeria can only overcome its challenges through unity, truth, and sustained dialogue. He appealed to the media to prioritize factual reporting and to avoid amplifying falsehoods that can damage reputations or sow discord among citizens. As a statesman, he said his focus remains on peacebuilding, strengthening democratic institutions, and supporting initiatives that promote national reconciliation and development.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to reject misinformation and stand firm in the pursuit of truth and mutual understanding, reminding everyone that the nation’s progress depends on collective effort and the willingness of its people to rise above politics and work for a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
