Dele Farotimi Dismisses Claim That Goodluck Jonathan Was Nigeria’s Best President Since 1999

Human rights lawyer and political activist, Dele Farotimi, has responded to an X user’s claim that former President Goodluck Jonathan was Nigeria’s best leader since 1999.

In a post on his official X account, Farotimi rejected the assertion, questioning the basis of such a conclusion.

He wrote, “If Jonathan is the best we have had since 1999, then it simply means we have been cursed with mediocrity. His government was just as corrupt and inept as the ones before and after him.”

Farotimi further argued that Nigerians often confuse a calm personality with effective leadership, stressing the need for leaders who are competent, accountable, and capable of transformative governance.

His remarks have generated mixed reactions on social media, with some users agreeing with his assessment and others defending Jonathan’s administration, citing his democratic values and peaceful conduct. The exchange has reignited public debate on leadership performance and governance standards in Nigeria.