Nigeria’s politics dominated by traitors, liars – Goodluck Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has lamented that Nigeria’s political space is riddled with betrayals and insincerity, noting that few politicians can be trusted to keep their word.

Jonathan made the remark in Benin City on Thursday during the 70th birthday celebration of his former Chief of Staff and one-time Deputy Governor of Edo State, Chief Mike Ogiadomhe.

The event was attended by prominent figures, including former governors Lucky Igbinedion, Professor Osarhiemen Osunbor, Adams Oshiomhole, and Ibrahim Dankwambo of Gombe State.

Other dignitaries included former deputy governors Rev. Peter Obadan, Pius Odubu, and Marvelous Omobayo; the Chief Judge of Edo State, Justice Daniel Okungbowa; Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, alongside other lawmakers; as well as traditional rulers.

In his remarks, Jonathan described Ogiadomhe as a dependable ally who has remained loyal both during his presidency and in his post-presidency years.

He recalled that Ogiadomhe stood firmly by him during the turbulence that followed the 2015 general elections.

“Politics in Nigeria, by our standard, is about betrayals,” Jonathan said. “It is difficult to find people who will say the same thing in the morning and still stand by it in the evening. I have witnessed many betrayals, especially around my 2015 election. But Mike is somebody who would take a bullet for me. He is one of the few friends you can take his word to the bank.”

Speaking on behalf of Governor Monday Okoebholo, the state’s deputy governor, Dennis Idahosa, praised Ogiadomhe for laying a solid foundation as deputy governor, which successive administrations continue to build upon.

Former governor Lucky Igbinedion also commended Ogiadomhe’s competence and loyalty, noting that he was always at ease leaving him in charge of state affairs whenever he travelled abroad during their tenure.

In his tribute, former governor Adams Oshiomhole said Ogiadomhe was unwavering in his loyalty to Jonathan, stressing that in political discussions, Ogiadomhe never hid where his allegiance lay. He also commended Ogiadomhe’s wife, Louisa, for standing firmly by her husband over the years.