10 years on, Jonathan’s peaceful concession still a model for African democracy
Where was Nigeria’s democracy ten years ago?
Exactly ten years ago today, on March 31, 2015, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan made history by conceding defeat to Muhammadu Buhari after a fiercely contested presidential election. In an era where political leaders across Africa often resort to violence, electoral disputes, or unconstitutional manoeuvres to cling to power, Jonathan’s concession remains one of the most defining moments of African democratic maturity. Indeed, then, Nigeria’s democracy was draped in bright colours.
His now-famous telephone call to Buhari was not just a gracious acceptance of electoral results – it was a deliberate commitment to peace, democracy, and national stability. That singular act prevented post-election violence, saved lives, and reinforced Nigeria’s democratic credentials on the global stage.
A Decade of Non-Zero-Sum Politics
Jonathan’s legacy goes beyond that historic phone call. Despite being in the opposition, he willingly collaborated with the Buhari administration on national and international issues, proving that politics need not be a zero-sum game. His statesmanship and dedication to national unity demonstrated that leadership should transcend party affiliations and personal ambition.
Even after leaving office, Jonathan actively engaged in peacebuilding efforts across Africa, leading international mediation missions and advocating for free, fair, and peaceful elections. His philosophy was summed up in his iconic statement:
“My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.”
That simple yet profound declaration, has been the hallmark of statecraft for emerging democracies and continues to challenge African leaders to prioritise national unity over personal power struggles. It is a call for a political culture that values dialogue over division, Institutions rather than individuals, democracy over dictatorship, and peace over power.
A Model for Africa’s Future
As Africa grapples with military coups, disputed elections, reversal of democratic gains, and authoritarian entrenchment, Jonathan’s approach remains a critical blueprint for democracy and governance reforms. With increasing political instability across the continent – from Guinea to Sudan, Gabon to Burkina Faso – institutionalising patriotic and democratic leadership is no longer an option; it is a necessity. Indeed, this direction should dictate the future for governance in Africa or something worst may befall the continent!
Key Lessons for Africa’s Leadership
1. Peaceful Concession as a Democratic Norm:
Jonathan’s concession should be taught as a case study in governance and leadership training for African leaders.
The African Union (AU) and ECOWAS should institutionalise peaceful handovers of power as a democratic standard.
2. Non tolerance for Zero-Sum Politics:
Political transitions should be collaborative rather than adversarial.
Future leaders must embrace bipartisanship and national reconciliation as part of governance.
3. Legislating Patriotic and Democratic Leadership as the MODEL for emerging leaders in the Continent.
African nations should develop constitutional and electoral frameworks that encourage peaceful political transitions.
Leadership training that is focused on patriotism and embracing peaceful democratic transitions, should be mandatory for political office aspirants.
A Legacy Worth Protecting:
A decade after Jonathan’s defining concession, the lesson is clear: African leaders must move beyond the politics of survival and embrace leadership that prioritises peace and national interest. As Africa continues to navigate political uncertainty, Jonathan’s example remains a beacon of hope for democratic stability and peaceful transitions.
Ten years later, his words still resonate: “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.” It is time for African leaders to adopt this mindset—not just in words, but in action.
Uwa, PhD, is the executive secretary, International Summit Council for Peace ISCP-Africa
