Jonathan Blames Nigerian Leaders, Lawmakers, and Judges for Tarnishing the Country’s Global Image

 By: Manoah kikekon 

Former president Goodluck Jonathan 

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has stated that the actions of Nigeria’s executive, legislative, and judicial officials are damaging the country’s international reputation, much like the activities of internet fraudsters, commonly referred to as "Yahoo Boys."  

Jonathan made these remarks during the annual colloquium organized by the Haske Satumari Foundation in Abuja on Saturday. Speaking on the theme, “Promoting social change and development through diversity, equity, and inclusion,” he emphasized how the conduct of government officials impacts Nigeria’s global standing.  

Jonathan criticized the executive, legislature, and judiciary for their roles in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, stating, “I always plead with our people that whatever we do affects everybody, and sometimes we do things, and we think that it doesn’t affect us.”

He highlighted how the decisions and actions of these arms of government influence the value of Nigeria’s passport and the treatment Nigerians receive abroad.  

“Why is it that our passport is not valued that much? Why is it that Nigerians are not given the kind of treatment we’re supposed to receive at international airports?” Jonathan questioned.  

“Sometimes, we think it’s because of ‘Yahoo Boys’ or 419. Not only them; yes, they are part of the problem,”* he added. *“But whatever happens in the country, decisions that are taken by the executive arm of government, decisions that are taken by the parliament, and judicial decisions affect everybody.”

Jonathan further explained how compromised governance systems deter foreign investment and hinder national development.  

“For example, no businessman can bring his money to invest in a country where the judiciary is compromised, where government functionaries can dictate to judges what judgment they will give,” he said.  

“No man brings his money to invest in that economy because we are taking a big risk. So whatever we do affects everybody, and if we want to build a nation where children and grandchildren will live, no matter how painful it is, we must strive to do what is right.”

Jonathan’s comments come amid ongoing reputational challenges for Nigeria, including President Bola Tinubu’s controversial past and allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio by Kogi lawmaker Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Akpoti-Uduaghan has continued to share her ordeal on international platforms, further damaging Nigeria’s image.  

In January, Peoples Gazette reported that President Tinubu had hired U.S. lobbyists to improve his reputation following allegations of involvement in drug trafficking and certificate fraud.