Former President Goodluck Jonathan has attributed the failure to implement the 2014 National Conference report to political betrayals and efforts by certain individuals to undermine his administration.
Jonathan made this revelation during a condolence visit to the residence of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, where he was accompanied by former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Koroma, PDP chieftain Bode George, former NDDC Managing Director Timi Alaibe, and Badagry Port Development Limited CEO Didi Ndiomu, among others.
Reflecting on the challenges of his administration, Jonathan stated that some powerful figures—including the then Speaker of the House of Representatives—actively worked against him, creating a hostile political climate that made it impossible to implement the confab’s recommendations.
“The political turbulence at the time was overwhelming. Some individuals were determined to bring my government down, and that was a major reason why the 2014 National Conference report could not be implemented,” he said.
Despite these setbacks, Jonathan expressed pride in the conference, which brought together over 500 delegates from different backgrounds to deliberate on key national issues.
He maintained that the recommendations were free from political bias and could still serve as a blueprint for addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
Expressing optimism, he said, “The report contains valuable proposals that can positively transform the country. I believe that one day, the right leadership will revisit and implement it.”
During the visit, Jonathan also paid tribute to Pa Adebanjo, describing him as a national hero and a pillar of democratic struggle.
Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who also visited Adebanjo’s residence, lauded the late Afenifere leader as a committed democrat and a defender of progressive ideals.
Atiku was accompanied by media personality Dele Momodu and Lagos PDP governorship candidate Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor), among others.
