Nigeria’s former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has identified the struggle for power as a primary cause of conflicts across the African continent.
Speaking at an event organized by the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) and partners in Abuja to commemorate the International Day of Peace, Jonathan emphasized that leadership struggles are at the heart of most African conflicts.
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s situation, stating that without fostering a culture of peace, political conflicts will continue to arise.
Jonathan challenged the notion that politics is inherently corrupt, attributing the negative perception to corrupt individuals rather than the system itself. He advocated for a mindset shift towards cultivating peace.
The former president highlighted the significance of peaceful elections, referencing the recent governorship election in Edo State, where tensions surged post-election due to concerns about irregularities. He cautioned that technology alone cannot resolve Nigeria’s electoral challenges, as it can be manipulated by corrupt individuals.
Dr. Samuel Iroye, Head of the Department of Peace and Conflict Studies at the National Open University of Nigeria, supported Jonathan’s views, calling for collective efforts to promote peace. He emphasized the importance of youth engagement in developmental initiatives and ensuring equal access to education as key components to achieving peace.
Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, Director General of IPCR, remarked that peace requires significant investment and urged Nigerians to prioritize its development. Jonathan was recognized as a Fellow by IPCR for his dedication to peace over personal interests.