Ex-President Goodluck Jonathan emphasized that elected officials who do not fulfill their responsibilities should be removed from office, assuming elections are conducted fairly and transparently.
Addressing the 2025 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) Democracy Dialogue held in Accra, Ghana, Jonathan highlighted electoral fraud as a critical threat undermining democratic progress across Africa. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate on comprehensive reforms to prevent the continent’s democratic institutions from deteriorating.
In a statement released on Saturday by the Foundation’s Communications Officer, Wealth Dickson Ominabo, Jonathan expressed concern that when democracy fails to deliver tangible benefits to citizens, it creates a breeding ground for authoritarian regimes.
“Democracy across Africa is currently under significant pressure and faces the danger of collapse unless we collectively rethink and reform the system. Electoral fraud remains one of the most serious challenges,” Jonathan remarked.
“In a truly democratic process, ineffective leaders would be voted out. Unfortunately, many exploit the system to cling to power despite widespread public disapproval.”
The former leader underscored that Africans seek more than just the ritual of elections; they demand transparency, fairness, and effective governance.
“Our people aspire to enjoy their fundamental freedoms. They want their votes to genuinely influence outcomes. They seek fair representation and inclusivity. They desire quality education, security, accessible healthcare, employment opportunities, and dignity. When these essential needs are unmet, disillusionment sets in,” he explained.
Jonathan also praised the increasing involvement of youth in political affairs but cautioned that young leaders must integrate the insights and experience of older generations to achieve meaningful progress.
The event attracted prominent figures from across Africa, including Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama and former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
President Mahama cautioned that democracy’s survival depends on active citizen engagement and robust governance reforms.
“Democracy cannot endure without our concerted efforts. We must revitalize democratic institutions to ensure accountability. Anyone president-27yr-sentence/” title=”Trump Erupts in Fury After Former Brazilian … Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison”>seeking public office must be answerable to the people. Our citizens are weary of corruption, poor governance, and limited opportunities,” he stated.
“To rejuvenate democracy, we need to strengthen institutions, promote development, and enhance civic education. Protecting the media and civic spaces is crucial, as a free press acts as democracy’s defense mechanism. Democracy falters when citizens lose trust, leaders forsake integrity, and institutions are compromised. Yet, democracy can be restored when people stand up to defend it.”
Former President Obasanjo, who chaired the dialogue, echoed the urgent need for democratic reforms, warning that the current state of governance in Africa is unsustainable.
Other notable attendees included Dr. Omar Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of the Sokoto Catholic Diocese, and various leaders who emphasized that democracy must transcend elections to embody responsibility, service, and discipline.
