“Jonathan Reflects on the Emotional Impact of His 2015 Election Loss”

Former President Goodluck Jonathan reflected on the emotional experience of losing the 2015 presidential election, calling it one of the toughest times in his political life. Speaking on Friday, Jonathan shared how the election results left him feeling overwhelmed, as if the entire world had turned against him.

Jonathan made these remarks at the first Raymond Dokpesi Annual Diamond Lecture, hosted by Daar Communications in partnership with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.As the candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party, Jonathan lost to Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress, with Buhari securing 15,424,921 votes against Jonathan’s 12,853,162.This election was historic for Nigeria, marking the first time an incumbent president was defeated in a re-election.

With a reflective smile, Jonathan recalled the deep emotions he felt during that period, describing the loss as difficult to put into words.He also acknowledged Raymond Dokpesi, Chairman of Daar Communications, for his support before the transition to Buhari’s administration.

It’s not easy losing an election as a sitting president, Jonathan admitted. “You feel like the whole world is against you. But before I handed over, Dokpesi invited me. I remember his words after my defeat.”Jonathan mentioned that while he received advice from many senior statesmen at the time, it was Dokpesi’s congratulatory message and encouragement to move forward that truly resonated with him.

“Many respected Nigerians shared their thoughts, and after listening to their words, he congratulated me and encouraged me to look beyond the election,” he said. “That conversation gave me hope, not only for the transition ahead but also for my spiritual journey as a private citizen. I explain this more fully in my book, My Transition Hours.”