Revisit 2014 confab recommendations, Jonathan urges FG

…Reveals how NASS members plotted against him

..As ex President, Atiku pay tribute to late Adebanjo

Former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have paid tributes to the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, honoring him as a fearless advocate for truth, justice, and national unity. The two leaders visited the family of the late elder statesman on Sunday to express their condolences and celebrate his contributions to Nigeria’s development.

Accompanied by former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma and former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, Jonathan expressed gratitude to the Afenifere leaders for their warm reception. He revealed that while he had already issued a public condolence message, he felt it was essential to visit the family in person to honor Adebanjo’s legacy. Jonathan described Adebanjo as a national icon whose life was dedicated to the progress and well-being of Nigeria.

“Pa Adebanjo was a man of immense wisdom, courage, and an unshakable commitment to making Nigeria a better place,” Jonathan said.

He took the opportunity to address past criticisms of the 2014 National Conference, which he convened during his presidency. He dismissed claims that the Confab was an attempt to manipulate Nigeria’s political landscape, emphasising that it was a genuine effort to foster national dialogue during a turbulent period in the country’s history.

“I am not the kind of leader who manipulates a nation. At that time, Nigeria was facing significant challenges, and we needed a credible platform for dialogue. The outcomes of the Confab were comprehensive and beneficial to the nation,” he said.

Jonathan acknowledged that many of the Confab participants had more experience than he did, but he relied on their collective wisdom to ensure productive discussions. He also recalled the political instability of that era, noting how some members of the National Assembly mobilised against his administration, even switching parties in an attempt to undermine his government. Despite these challenges, he remained steadfast in his belief that dialogue was the best path to resolving national issues.

Jonathan emphasised the need to revisit the 2014 Confab resolutions, stating that they remain highly relevant to Nigeria’s progress. He urged current and future leaders to uphold the values Pa Adebanjo championed, which are truth, justice, and good governance.

“The resolutions from the 2014 Confab are still pertinent to Nigeria’s development. We must not let such a valuable effort go to waste. Pa Adebanjo’s legacy reminds us that truth and justice are the foundations of a thriving nation, Jonathan said.

Also speaking, Atiku, stated that the leadership lifestyle of Adebanjo was one that should never be compromised.

“Coming here a number of times and listening to his lectures both during the pre-independence and post-independence era, before the elections is something that can never be forgotten,” he said.