Former President Goodluck Jonathan has spoken openly about the deep sense of betrayal he felt from many Nigerian politicians during his failed re-election bid in 2015.
Speaking in Benin City, the capital of Edo State, on Thursday during the 70th birthday celebration of his longtime ally and former Chief of Staff, Chief Mike Aiyegbeni Oghiadomhe, Jonathan described Nigerian politics as full of “betrayals” and expressed disappointment at how many people turned their backs on him when he needed them most.
Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s President from 2010 to 2015, lost the 2015 presidential election to Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC), making him the first sitting Nigerian president to lose an election and concede defeat.
During the event, which was attended by top political figures and dignitaries, Jonathan praised Chief Oghiadomhe as one of the few individuals who remained loyal during difficult times.
“Politics in the Nigerian standard is about betrayals,” Jonathan said. “I have witnessed a lot of betrayal during the 2015 election. You will find it difficult to see somebody who says the same thing in the morning, in the afternoon, and in the evening.”
He continued, “Chief Oghiadomhe is one of the few friends I have who can stick out their necks for me. I thank God for his life and his loyalty, especially during challenging political periods.”
Jonathan’s comments have stirred political discussions across the country, especially as speculation continues to grow over his possible return to politics ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
In recent months, there have been rumours that the former president may contest the 2027 presidential election under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). However, Jonathan has not officially confirmed or denied these speculations.
Jonathan’s remarks also reflect the internal divisions and trust issues within Nigerian political parties, particularly during election periods. In 2015, some members of the PDP were accused of secretly working against Jonathan’s re-election while publicly claiming to support him.
During his presidency, Chief Mike Oghiadomhe served as Jonathan’s Chief of Staff from 2010 to 2014. He was known to be one of Jonathan’s closest aides and a trusted figure within the Presidency.
The former president used the opportunity of Oghiadomhe’s birthday celebration to not only honour him but also reflect on the harsh realities of Nigerian politics.
“When you are in power, people flock around you. But when you’re out, the true friends remain. Mike has been one of those true friends,” Jonathan added.
Jonathan’s statement comes at a time when the PDP is trying to rebuild its image and strengthen its support base ahead of the next general elections. With ongoing challenges within the party and increasing pressure from the ruling APC, the PDP may look to experienced leaders like Jonathan to provide guidance or even step back into the ring.
For now, Jonathan remains a respected statesman both in Nigeria and across Africa, where he continues to serve as an election observer and peace ambassador. Whether or not he decides to return to active politics, his latest comments show he has not forgotten the events that shaped his exit from power.
