The Executive Secretary of the International Supreme Council for Peace Africa, Ambassador Simeon Uwah, has praised former President Goodluck Jonathan for his remarkable sacrifice in conceding defeat during the 2015 general elections.

Uwah described Jonathan’s decision as a defining moment in African democratic maturity. In a historic move, Jonathan conceded defeat to former President Muhammadu Buhari in a fiercely contested election, surprising many and capturing global attention.

Speaking to journalists in Uyo on Monday, Uwah emphasized that Jonathan’s peaceful handover of power serves as a valuable lesson for African leaders who, in times of political turmoil, often refuse to relinquish power.

“On March 31, 2015, exactly 10 years ago today, for[mer Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan made history by conceding defeat to Muhammadu Buhari,” Uwah said. “At a time when many African leaders resort to violence and unconstitutional maneuvers to retain power, Jonathan’s decision stood as a defining moment of democratic progress.”

He highlighted Jonathan’s famous phone call to Buhari, describing it as a deliberate act of commitment to peace, democracy, and national stability.

“His phone call was not just a display of sportsmanship but a crucial step toward ensuring peace. This single act helped prevent post-election violence, saved countless lives, and strengthened Nigeria’s democratic standing on the global stage,” Uwah added.

As Africa faces political instability, Uwah urged leaders to adopt Jonathan’s example, particularly in nations experiencing coups and disputed elections.

“With instability on the rise across the continent—from Guinea to Sudan, Gabon to Burkina Faso—instituting patriotic and democratic leadership is not optional but imperative,” he stressed.

He also called on the African Union and ECOWAS to institutionalize peaceful handovers as a standard for democratic governance.

“Political transitions should be collaborative, not adversarial,” Uwah stated, urging future leaders to embrace bipartisanship and national reconciliation.

He concluded by recalling Jonathan’s words: “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian,” encouraging African leaders to adopt this mindset in both rhetoric and action.