Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday described his ascent from deputy governor to the presidency as “nothing short of a political miracle,” attributing his rise to divine intervention.
Jonathan made the remarks at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, during the presentation of books authored by journalist and former presidential spokesperson, Dr. Reuben Abati.
He said, “My political journey looked like a political miracle. From deputy governor to becoming president of this country within four years — it was a miracle. It’s only God that made it possible.”
Jonathan commended Abati for his intellectual depth and for documenting experiences from his administration, noting that the books provide a detailed account of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who chaired the event, lauded Abati’s evolution as a journalist, commentator, and political aide. He stressed the importance of truth in achieving both personal and national success.
Obasanjo remarked, “The truth that I stood for then, you have now come to stand for. I am happy that in my lifetime, I can say I have a son in Reuben Abati who has matured, understood, and progressed. You have made progress; now you must make success.”
The book reviewer, Louis Odion, described Abati’s trilogy as reflections of Nigeria’s high and low points while showcasing the nation’s potential for unity and progress. The works include:
Portraits: People, Politics and Society (642 pages)
How Goodluck Jonathan Became President (285 pages)
A Love Letter and Other Stories (402 pages)
Abati assured the audience that additional publications revealing more about the Jonathan presidency are forthcoming. The event featured a keynote address by Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Hassan Kukah.
Several dignitaries attended, including former Ogun State Governor Segun Osoba, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Lagos Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, and traditional rulers such as the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, and the Olota of Ota, Oba Adeyemi Abdulkabir.
Other notable attendees were former governors Gbenga Daniel and Adams Oshiomhole, Ambassador Godknows Igali, media executives including Joseph Adeyeye of Punch Newspapers and Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru of The Guardian, advertising mogul Biodun Shobanjo, sports administrator Amaju Pinnick, and entertainer Shaffy Bello.
Abati’s wife, Kikelomo Abati, and other family members were also present.
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