Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday clarified why his administration did not act on the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference.
He disclosed this during a condolence visit to the family of the late Afenifere leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo, in Lagos, where he was joined by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.
Jonathan attributed the decision to the intense political instability at the time, stating that the atmosphere was not conducive for presenting the recommendations.
He acknowledged that the conference would not have been possible without the contributions of figures like the late Adebanjo, who passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.
Addressing why the report was not executed, Jonathan explained that many Nigerians were unaware of the severe political turbulence during that period.
He noted that a key legislator from his party mobilized against him and defected to another party, adding that certain individuals were determined to see his administration collapse.
“It wasn’t the right time to present such a document. However, we trust that one day, a government will review and implement it,” he stated.
Jonathan emphasized that the recommendations were the product of credible Nigerians, devoid of political bias, and remain relevant to national development.
During the visit, Jonathan and Atiku were received separately by the late Adebanjo’s children, led by Obafemi Ayo-Adebanjo. Members of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, headed by Oba Oladipo Olaitan, were also in attendance.
Jonathan, accompanied by Sierra Leone’s former President Ernest Bai Koroma, ex-PDP Deputy National Chairman Chief Olabode George, and other political figures, arrived at Adebanjo’s Lekki residence at 1:57 p.m.
Atiku, who arrived around 3 p.m., was accompanied by PDP stalwarts, including Chief Dele Momodu and Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran, the party’s 2023 Lagos governorship candidate.
During his remarks, Jonathan described Adebanjo as a national figure who stood for wisdom, courage, truth, and justice.
“Our leader was not just an Afenifere leader; he was a leader of Nigeria. He upheld truth and justice, which are essential for national progress,” Jonathan said.
Atiku also eulogized Adebanjo, calling him a great leader whose passing was a significant loss.
“This home has welcomed me many times, and I always left with valuable lessons from Pa Adebanjo. He stood for unity and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria,” Atiku stated.
Following the condolence visit, Jonathan, Atiku, and other dignitaries attended a dinner hosted by former President Olusegun Obasanjo at The Delborough Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The event was also graced by former Senate President Bukola Saraki and other political figures