Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said power struggle is responsible for conflicts on the African continent.
The former president spoke in Abuja at a programme organized by the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) and partners in commemoration of the International Day of Peace, where he was honored as a Fellow by IPCR for his commitment to peace above personal interests.
Expressing concern about Nigeria’s many problems, he stated that until the country develops a culture of peace, political conflicts will persist.
Dr. Jonathan, who also said the widely believed notion that politics is dirty is untrue, instead blamed corrupt individuals for the negative perception and advocated for a shift in mindset.
The former president also stressed the importance of peaceful elections, citing the recent governorship election in Edo State, where tension was higher after the election due to concerns about irregularities.
Jonathan stressed that technology alone cannot solve Nigeria’s electoral issues, as corrupt minds will manipulate it.
Also speaking, the Head of Department of Peace and Conflict Studies at the National Open University of Nigeria, Dr. Samuel Iroye, echoed the ex-president’s sentiments, emphasizing the need for collective effort in promoting peace. He called for youth engagement in developmental initiatives and equal access to education to achieve peace.
On his own, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the Director General of IPCR, noted that peace requires investment, urging Nigerians to prioritize its development.
