Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has called for stronger democratic systems across Africa, warning that leaders who fail to deliver should be removed through credible elections.
Jonathan gave the charge while speaking at the 2025 edition of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) Democracy Dialogue in Accra, Ghana.
His remarks underscored concerns that electoral manipulation remains one of the greatest threats to democracy on the continent.
In a statement released on Saturday by GJF Communications Officer, Wealth Dickson Ominabo, Jonathan urged African leaders to commit to reforms that guarantee citizens’ voices are respected and their aspirations met.
“Democracy in Africa is going through a period of strain and risks collapse unless stakeholders come together to rethink and reform it.
Electoral manipulation remains one of the biggest threats in Africa,” he warned.
Jonathan emphasized that credible polls are the bedrock of democratic accountability.
According to him, when elections are properly conducted, leaders who fail to perform will naturally be voted out by the people.
He lamented, however, that in many African countries, politicians manipulate electoral systems to remain in power against the will of the people.
“Our people want to enjoy their freedoms. They want their votes to count during elections.
They want equitable representation and inclusivity. They want education, security, healthcare, jobs, and dignity.
When leaders fail to meet these needs, the people become disillusioned,” Jonathan said.
The former president also warned that when democracy consistently fails to meet citizens’ expectations, desperation often creates openings for authoritarianism.
This, he stressed, could derail Africa’s progress and worsen instability.
Jonathan highlighted the growing involvement of young people in politics as a positive trend but urged that youth leaders must be mentored by experienced statesmen to succeed in governance.
He argued that combining youthful energy with the wisdom of elders is crucial for building strong democratic institutions.
His remarks come at a time when several African nations face disputed elections, rising authoritarian tendencies, and increasing public distrust in political processes.
The GJF Democracy Dialogue, which draws leaders, academics, and civil society actors, aims to strengthen democratic ideals across Africa through constructive engagement.
For Jonathan, the message was clear: Africa’s democracy can only thrive if elections are transparent, votes count, and non-performing leaders are peacefully replaced through the ballot.
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