Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has emphasized the importance of credible elections in holding leaders accountable for their performance. Speaking at the 2025 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF) Democracy Dialogue in Accra, Ghana, Jonathan stressed that leaders who fail to deliver on their promises should be voted out of office if elections are conducted in a free and fair manner.

Jonathan also highlighted the threat of electoral manipulation to democracy in Africa, warning that unless stakeholders work together to reform governance, democracy on the continent is at risk of collapse. The former President’s remarks underscore the need for electoral reforms and increased transparency in the electoral process.

The GJF Democracy Dialogue provides a platform for thought leaders and stakeholders to discuss critical issues affecting democracy in Africa. Jonathan’s comments are expected to spark further debate on the need for credible elections and good governance on the continent.

In a statement on Saturday, Communications Officer at the Foundation, Wealth Dickson Ominabo, quoted Jonathan as saying that where democracy fails to meet expectations, desperation often paves the way for authoritarianism.

Jonathan said, “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.

“If we had proper elections, a leader who fails to perform would be voted out. But in our case, people use the system to perpetuate themselves even when the people don’t want them.”

The former President noted that Africans want more than elections; they desire freedoms, equity, and dignity.

“Our people want to enjoy their freedoms. They want their votes to count during elections. They want equitable representation and inclusivity. They want good education. Our people want security. They want access to good healthcare. They want jobs. They want dignity. When leaders fail to meet these basic needs, the people become disillusioned,” he said.

Jonathan also spoke on youth participation in politics, describing it as encouraging but insisting that younger leaders require the guidance and wisdom of the older generation to succeed.