Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Bishop Hassan Kukah, has hailed former president Goodluck Jonathan for his role in sustaining democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking at the 2025 International Conference organised by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Accra, Ghana, on Wednesday, Mr Kukah said Mr Jonathan’s historic congratulatory call to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 after the presidential poll shaped the future of democracy in the country.

The cleric said, “His singular sacrifice has helped to shape the future of democracy in Nigeria. You had a standing army, you had the resources and the power to overturn the elections, but you chose the path of honour. This has set you apart. The Athenian gods have given you the flame of democracy to carry around the continent.”

Mr Kukah identified greedy politicians as one of the greatest threats to survival of democracy in Africa, noting that their actions prevent people from enjoying the dividends of democracy.

He stated, “Often those who pose the greatest threat to democracy are the elected officials who substitute blind, personal ambition and greed for the fine principles of service that democracy represents. Once elected to power, some politicians often become a danger to their own people and the democratic process itself by seeking to govern at all cost. The gargantuan corruption that continues to gnaw at state resources is revolting. Once in power, the paraphernalia of power often makes it impossible for the already powerless people to feel the impact of governance.’’

The cleric pointed out that despite its flaws, democracy remained the most potent weapon yet invented by humans for preventing the authoritarian and malicious use of power.

He added, “It is a system that dreams of how to prevent the few, the rich and the powerful who act as if they are mighty immortals born to rule”.

Mr Kukah advocated strong and transparent electoral laws, urging Nigerians against resorting to violence to express their frustration with the system.

He stated. “Citizens must learn how to manage frustration, anger and bitterness. This is where moral upbringing, patriotism and civics can help citizens learn how to manage their frustration without resort to violence. Citizens must learn that the solution to a bad election is another election. The winners must also be ready to create a level playing field rather than raise roadblocks or walls after victories.

“Electoral laws and umpires must ensure that the processes are so fair and transparent, that winners and loser can shake hands and go back to work harder for the next election because they agree that the playing field was level. How winners conduct themselves will determine how the losers take their losses, thereby encouraging people to trust in democracy. Politics should be for the living, and no one should lose their lives cheaply over elections.’’