Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan shared his emotional journey after his 2015 election defeat during the inaugural Raymond Dokpesi Annual Diamond Lecture in Abuja on October 25.
Reflecting on the isolation he felt after losing to Muhammadu Buhari, Jonathan remarked, “It is not easy to lose an election as a president. You will think the whole world is against you.” Despite the defeat, he made headlines for graciously conceding and congratulating Buhari before official results were announced.
Jonathan acknowledged the support he received from the late media mogul Raymond Dokpesi, who encouraged him to look beyond the election and provided him with hope during this challenging time.
He recounted that Dokpesi’s counsel helped him navigate the transition to private life and gave him spiritual strength. These reflections are also detailed in his book, My Transition Hours, which explores his experiences after leaving office.
