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How I reacted losing election as incumbent president — Jonathan

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan, on Friday, recounted the experience of losing the 2015 presidential election, saying it was a tough moment in his political life.

The ex-president admitted that he was emotional when he learned about the result, adding that it felt as if the whole world was against him.

He made the confession in Abuja at the 1st Raymond Dokpesi Annual Diamond Lecture, organised by the management of Daar Communications in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.

Jonathan, who ran on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, was defeated in the 2015 election by the All Progressives Congress candidate, Muhammadu Buhari.

The former military dictator polled 15,424,921 votes, relegating the ex-president, who garnered only 12,853,162 votes, to second place.
The election marked the first time an incumbent president had lost re-election in Nigeria.

Beaming with a smile as he addressed the audience on Friday, Jonathan said the emotional torment he experienced was inexplicable.

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The former Bayelsa deputy governor also recounted the fatherly role the Chairman of Daar Communications, Raymond Dokpesi, played before he officially handed over to Buhari.

He said, “It is not easy to lose an election as a president. You will think the whole world is against you. But then, Dokpesi invited me before I handed over. I remember what he said to me when I lost the election.

“There were so many senior Nigerians (elder statesmen) who spoke. After I listened to all the conversations, he congratulated me and encouraged me to look beyond the election. This is how I commemorated that session.

“That communication gave me hope and helped me not necessarily for the transition hour ahead of me but also in my spiritual life as a private citizen. If you read my book, My Transition Hours, I explain it more elaborately.”

Earlier in his address, the Minister of Information, Idris Mohammed, urged Nigerians not to abuse the freedom of speech they are enjoying.
While describing Dokpesi as a patriot and exceptional media personality, Mohammed suggested that others should borrow a leaf from his exemplary lifestyle of nation-building.

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“Our respect for freedom of speech is sacrosanct even as we continue to urge responsibility in the exercise of this freedom. Nigerians are free to speak about this dear country of ours. What we can and will continue to do is to avoid getting to the point where reckless negativity becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy of sorts.

“We will make a grievous error individually and collectively if we choose to focus only on what is not working and neglect to balance it with equal attention to the things we are getting right. And we are getting a lot of things right as a nation even in our present circumstances.

“The media has an important role to play in strengthening this balanced approach through your reportage as shepherds and drivers of public opinion. The late Dokpesi played his part, and he did it in a way that he will never be forgotten,” he stated.

Dokpesi passed away on May 29, 2023.

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According to DAAR Communications Group Managing Director, Tony Akiotu, he had been ill for a few weeks before his death.

Akiotu added that the former marine engineer fell off his treadmill during a routine gym exercise.

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SPECIAL TRIBUTE: Celebrating a rare icon, master strategist, and a true Professor of practical politics.

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At 90, Otunba Bushura Adedeji Alebiosu – “Bush of Africa” stands as a living testament to wisdom, resilience, and enduring influence.

His life has been a remarkable journey of service, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to community development and political excellence at the grassroots.

Otunba Alebiosu’s legacy is written not just in years, but in lives touched, leaders raised, and structures built. A bridge between generations, his voice has shaped conversations, guided decisions, and inspired countless individuals to embrace purposeful leadership.

Today, we celebrate not just longevity, but impact. Not just age, but relevance. Not just a man, but an institution.

May your wisdom continue to illuminate paths, and may your legacy remain evergreen.

Happy 90th Birthday, Bush of Africa

E-signed:

Oloye Salami Oluwaseun
Managing Director/CEO
Crosserlough Development Company

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Zaynab Otiti Obanor: The Queen with Uncommon Milk of Kindness Celebrates Birthday with the Needy

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In a world where birthdays are often marked by glittering parties and exclusive guest lists, Zaynab Otiti Obanor chose a different path—one paved with compassion, empathy and an uncommon milk of human kindness.

For Zaynab, philanthropy is not a seasonal obligation or a public relations gesture; it is a way of life. True to her enduring spirit of generosity, she marked her birthday not with chandeliers and champagne, but with open arms and a giving heart—celebrating with the needy, the forgotten and the vulnerable.

From distributing food items and essential supplies to sharing warm embraces and reassuring words, she turned what could have been a private celebration into a communal blessing. For many beneficiaries, her presence was more precious than the gifts she brought. She did not merely give; she connected. She listened. She cared.

Those who know her say this is vintage Zaynab—graceful yet grounded, elegant yet empathetic. A woman who understands that true royalty is not defined by status but by service. In her quiet but impactful way, she continues to demonstrate that the greatest wealth one can possess is a generous spirit.

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Her philosophy has always been clear: to change the world, we must first change our attitude toward giving. And on her special day, she once again proved that kindness, when shared, multiplies.

As she adds another year, Zaynab Otiti Obanor stands tall—not just as a celebrated figure, but as a beacon of hope. A queen, indeed, whose crown shines brightest in the lives she touches.

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President Tinubu at 74: Wale Tinubu Showers Praises, Applauds President’s Courage and Wisdom

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As President Bola Ahmed Tinubu clocks 74 today, tributes have continued to pour in, with Dr. Jubril Adewale Tinubu, CON, leading the chorus of commendation for what he describes as a legacy of courage and far-reaching vision.

In a warm gesture that underscores respect, loyalty, and shared vision, Tinubu, GCE, Oando Group and a prominent figure in Nigeria’s corporate sphere extended heartfelt felicitations to the President, celebrating a life defined by resilience, leadership, and enduring impact on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.

Dr. Tinubu, praised the President for his steadfast commitment to nation-building, describing him as a visionary leader whose influence has remained pivotal in shaping modern Nigeria. He noted that President Tinubu’s journey—from his days as a pro-democracy advocate to his emergence as the nation’s number one citizen—stands as a testament to courage, tenacity, and strategic foresight.

According to him, the President’s Renewed Hope agenda continues to inspire confidence among stakeholders within and outside the country, as it seeks to reposition Nigeria on the path of sustainable growth and prosperity. He commended Tinubu’s bold reforms and unwavering determination to tackle long-standing structural challenges, emphasizing that true leadership often requires difficult but necessary decisions.

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“Leadership asks for courage, the kind that stands firm when decisions are difficult, and the path is not always applauded. You have taken on that responsibility, making choices that are stabilising our economy and restoring confidence’’ Dr. Tinubu stated.

He further prayed for renewed strength, wisdom, and good health for the President, expressing optimism that the years ahead will usher in even greater accomplishments for both the leader and the nation at large.

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