Jonathan deserves respect, diaspora group slams VeryDarkMan

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By Adeola Badru

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The Goodluckans 2027 Diaspora Leadership Council has come out in strong defence of former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, following recent criticisms levelled against him by controversial social media commentator VeryDarkMan.

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In a statement issued at the weekend, the diaspora group condemned the remarks made against the former president, describing them as unfair and disrespectful to a leader whose role in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy remains widely acknowledged.

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The statement, signed by the council’s coordinator, Eliana Melekwe, stated that members of the organisation were deeply disturbed by the comments and insisted that Dr Jonathan’s service to the nation should not be trivialised.

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According to the group, the council represented a broad coalition of Nigerians living abroad, including medical professionals, legal practitioners, academics, business owners and other skilled professionals dedicated to Nigeria’s progress, unity and democratic stability.

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It stressed that the movement is driven solely by patriotism and a sincere desire to see Nigeria prosper, rather than by online popularity or personal financial interests.

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“Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan remains one of the finest democratic leaders Nigeria has ever produced,” the statement read.

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The council further praised Dr Jonathan for what it described as his calm disposition, inclusive leadership style and steadfast dedication to democratic governance.

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The group also recalled his historic statement during the 2015 presidential election that, “my political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian,” describing the declaration as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

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It noted that Dr Jonathan’s peaceful concession of defeat at the time helped prevent political unrest and reinforced constitutional democracy in the country.

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“At a delicate period in the nation’s political history, President Jonathan chose peace, unity and democratic continuity over personal ambition,” the statement added.

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The organisation further argued that the former president’s conduct since leaving office has continued to attract admiration both locally and internationally, earning him recognition as a respected statesman and advocate for democracy across Africa.

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The council said many Nigerians still remembered the Jonathan administration for fostering democratic freedoms, relative economic calm and a stronger sense of national inclusion.

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The group also urged public personalities and online influencers to exercise restraint, accuracy and responsibility when making comments about individuals who have served the nation at the highest level.

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“Public influence carries enormous responsibility and must be exercised with fairness, honesty and respect for historical truth, particularly when discussing leaders whose sacrifices and contributions to democratic governance are well established,” the statement said.

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The council, however, reaffirmed its commitment to the promotion of democracy, accountability, peaceful coexistence and national unity in Nigeria.

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