Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has said that he does not hold grudges against anyone, even those who may have hurt him in the past. He described forgiveness as a personal principle and a crucial value for peace, unity, and national development.
Dr. Jonathan made this known on Wednesday evening during a requiem mass held in Abuja in honour of the late Chief Audu Ogbeh, a respected elder statesman, politician, and farmer.
While paying tribute to the late Ogbeh, the former president described him as a humble and forgiving man who lived his life with grace, kindness, and a heart free of resentment.
“Chief Ogbeh was a man who did not seek revenge. He believed the past should be left behind and that we must keep moving forward,” Jonathan said. “In that sense, he was just like me. If you hurt me today, I will forgive you. I don’t carry grudges against people. I believe the past is past—and I move on.”
Dr. Jonathan emphasized the importance of forgiveness, especially in politics, where emotions often run high and disagreements are common. He noted that the ability to forgive and look beyond personal grievances is essential for building a united and peaceful Nigeria.
Speaking fondly of his relationship with the late Chief Ogbeh, Jonathan recalled their first encounter during his tenure as Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, when Ogbeh was serving as the National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“At that time, deputy governors were often treated like spare tyres, but Chief Ogbeh didn’t see me that way. He treated me as a friend,” Jonathan said. “Any time I was in Abuja, I would go to see him, and we would have long, meaningful conversations.”
He said their bond remained strong even after he became president. “Whenever he wanted to see me, he would come. Sometimes we would talk for over an hour about national issues. He was deeply passionate about Nigeria.”
Dr. Jonathan praised Ogbeh’s contributions to Nigeria’s political development and agricultural sector. As a one-time Minister of Agriculture, Ogbeh was widely respected for his deep knowledge of farming and food security issues. He also served in various party and government positions, always maintaining a reputation for integrity, humility, and service.
Using the occasion to speak directly to politicians, Jonathan urged them to emulate the values Chief Ogbeh lived by—particularly his humility, calm nature, and his ability to forgive and bring people together.
“We need more politicians who can rise above bitterness and focus on what truly matters—serving the people,” he said. “Chief Ogbeh showed us that you don’t need to be loud or vindictive to make an impact. He used wisdom and dialogue to solve problems.”
Dr. Jonathan added that for Nigeria to progress, leaders must move away from politics of hatred and division. “We must forgive, unite, and work together for the good of our country,” he stressed.
divisions. His comments served as a reminder of the need for maturity and healing in Nigeria’s political space.
He concluded his tribute by expressing condolences to the Ogbeh family and praying that God grants them the strength to bear the loss.
The requiem mass was attended by top government officials, politicians, family members, and well-wishers who gathered to honour the life and legacy of Chief Audu Ogbeh.
The late Chief Ogbeh, aged 76, was known for his simple lifestyle, intellectual depth, and dedication to public service. His contributions to Nigeria’s political stability and agricultural development have been widely acknowledged across the country.
