There should be buildings in Abuja where pictures of bad leaders in Nigeria are displayed – Goodluck Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has suggested that Nigeria should construct two buildings in Abuja to showcase pictures of individuals who contributed to the country’s problems.

He believes this will serve as a historical lesson for future generations, ensuring their descendants recognize the negative roles their forefathers played.

Speaking at the book launch of former Inspector General of Police Solomon Arase in Abuja, Jonathan criticized Nigerians for tolerating bad leadership and urged citizens to reject misconduct in politics. He emphasized that leaders would only act responsibly when the public demands accountability.

“Maybe one day, we will have two big buildings in Abuja where we will put pictures of people — whether dead or alive — who have messed up this country so that their grandchildren will know their forefathers were part of Nigeria’s problems,” Jonathan said.

He also spoke against deploying military personnel for election duties, arguing that it overstretches the armed forces. According to him, elections should be managed primarily by the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Jonathan compared Nigeria’s election security to that of Botswana and Senegal, where the military has minimal involvement. He noted that in Botswana, police officers handle election security while the military focuses on government facilities.

Speaking at the same event, 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi emphasized that credible elections depend on the integrity of those in power. He recounted how he ensured free and fair elections during his tenure as Anambra State governor under Jonathan’s administration.

Obi also linked electoral malpractice to broader corruption issues, stressing that when public officials stop stealing, it will positively impact security and governance.