How I felt after losing the 2015 Presidential election — Jonathan

In a heartfelt speech on Friday, former President Goodluck Jonathan opened up about his 2015 election loss, describing it as one of the most challenging experiences of his political career. Speaking at the inaugural Raymond Dokpesi Annual Diamond Lecture, organized by Daar Communications and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Jonathan shared his personal struggle as he faced the reality of defeat, feeling as though the entire world had turned its back on him.

Jonathan, who ran under the Peoples Democratic Party, was defeated by Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress, with Buhari securing over 15 million votes to Jonathan’s 12.8 million. This election marked a historic moment as the first time an incumbent Nigerian president lost a re-election bid.

With a reflective smile, Jonathan recalled the emotional turmoil that accompanied his loss, admitting that the pain was difficult to put into words. He expressed gratitude towards Raymond Dokpesi, Chairman of Daar Communications, for his support and encouragement during that difficult period. Jonathan shared how, shortly before he officially handed over power, Dokpesi invited him for a conversation that would offer him solace and perspective.

The former president noted that while many elder statesmen had reached out, it was Dokpesi’s words that resonated deeply. “There were so many senior Nigerians who spoke. But after listening to all, Dokpesi congratulated me and encouraged me to look beyond the election. That message gave me hope, not only for the transition ahead but also in my journey as a private citizen,” Jonathan explained, referencing his book My Transition Hours, where he delves deeper into the experience.

Jonathan’s speech serves as a rare insight into the personal side of a leader navigating one of the toughest periods of his life, while paying tribute to the support that helped him rise above his own defeat.