Vice President Kashim Shettima has hailed Goodluck Jonathan’s 2015 concession of defeat to late Muhammadu Buhari. He recently described the moment as a decision that saved Nigeria from plunging into crisis.
Speaking at the 10th anniversary dinner of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, an event that also doubled as a celebration of his 68th birthday, Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, revealed that Nigeria’s democracy has endured largely because of leaders like GEJ.
According to him, individuals who consistently place national interest above personal ambition deserve more recognition, and the statesmanship Jonathan displayed after leaving office has earned him a place among Africa’s most respected democratic figures.
Shettima stated that GEJ’s thoughtful decision immediately positioned him as a role model for peace leadership across the continent.
“The highest point of the Jonathan legacy was when he courageously conceded defeat and saved the nation from a precipice,” he said.
The VP further conveyed President Tinubu’s goodwill, stressing that Jonathan’s conduct since leaving office demonstrates that public service does not have to end with official duties.
He concluded by saying that GEJ clearly understands that Nigeria will always be bigger than any politician.
“Our democracy has survived turbulent election seasons because leaders like former President Jonathan understand that the Nigerian state is bigger than any individual,” he added.
