Why We Didn’t Implement 2014 National Conference Recommendations – Goodluck Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has explained why his administration did not implement the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference. Speaking in Lagos on Sunday during a visit to the family of the late Afenifere leader, Ayo Adebanjo, Jonathan attributed the decision to the political climate and internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2015 elections.

Accompanied by former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma and former PDP Deputy National Chairman (South) Bode George, Jonathan praised Adebanjo’s role in the conference, emphasizing that without his support and that of other leaders, the initiative might not have been successful. He recalled early skepticism surrounding the conference, with some believing it was a political ploy, but insisted that the recommendations came from credible Nigerians who were not politically influenced.

“It was not the time we could present such a document,” Jonathan said. “Thank God for everything. We believe that one day, one government will review it and take everything. We believe the outcomes are still very relevant for our society.”

Reflecting on Adebanjo’s passing, Jonathan described him as a courageous and wise leader who was deeply committed to Nigeria’s progress. He also mourned the loss of Edwin Clark, leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), emphasizing their dedication to justice and truth.

“Our dear leader was not the leader of Afenifere alone. He was a leader of this country,” Jonathan said. “He was a man with enormous wisdom, courage, and willingness to do the right thing for this country. He believed in truth and justice. No nation can grow when there is no truth and when there is no justice.”