Jonathan reflects on 2015 election loss, reveals emotional aftermath

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has spoken publicly about his emotions following the 2015 presidential election, revealing that he felt isolated and defeated.

He spoke at the maiden edition of the Raymond Dokpesi annual diamond lecture in Abuja, on Friday.

“It is not easy to lose an election as a president. You will think the whole world is against you,”

The event, organized by Daar Communications in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, provided a platform for Jonathan to reflect on his experience.

He recounted how the late Dokpesi offered words of encouragement after his defeat, urging him to remain hopeful.

Jonathan recalled Dokpesi’s invitation before the presidential handover, saying, “There were so many senior Nigerians who spoke. After I listened to all the conversations, he congratulated me and encouraged me to look beyond the election.”

This conversation, Jonathan noted, gave him hope and helped him navigate the transition period, both politically and spiritually.

In his book, “My Transition Hours,” Jonathan elaborates on this experience, providing insight into his thoughts and feelings during that time.

The 2015 election marked a significant turning point in Nigeria’s history, as Jonathan became the first incumbent president to lose his reelection bid.

He conceded defeat and congratulated Muhammadu Buhari, his successor, even before the official results were announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

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