Former President Goodluck Jonathan has revealed why his administration did not implement the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference, citing political tensions and internal crises within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2015 elections.
Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the late Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, in Lagos, Jonathan acknowledged Adebanjo’s key role in the conference’s success. He noted that despite initial suspicions about his intentions, the initiative moved forward with the support of respected national figures.
“Without people like him and other leaders, the conference wouldn’t have taken place,” Jonathan said. He added that while some participants sought his guidance, he preferred to let the experienced delegates make independent decisions.
Despite the significance of the conference’s recommendations, Jonathan explained that the political climate at the time was unsuitable for implementation. “It was not the time we could present such a document. We believe that one day, a government will review it and adopt it because the outcomes remain relevant,” he said.
He also mourned the loss of Adebanjo and Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leader Edwin Clark, describing them as champions of justice and national development. “He was a man of wisdom, courage, and commitment to truth and justice—values essential for national growth,” Jonathan stated.
