Jonathan counters Tinubu, says all is not fair in politics

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has challenged President Bola Tinubu's assertion that "all is fair in politics," asserting that such a stance would be misguided. On July 28, Tinubu warned political opponents seeking to unseat him in the 2027 election that he would not relinquish his position without a fight, stating, "all is fair in a democratic contest."

This came as political parties ramped up their activities ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a lecture marking the 80th birthday of former Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Kanu Agabi, SAN, Jonathan defended the idea that there are rules in politics and politicians must abide by them. He stated, "Politics is like a soccer match.

You play according to the rules, and that is why the courts step in to mediate if you go against the rules. Otherwise, you can do anything and win an election and walk away." Jonathan emphasized that the fight against corruption in the country requires more than just laws and enforcement agencies; it also necessitates the cultivation of a society that values ethical conduct over wrongdoing.

He highlighted Rwanda's example, where deep-rooted social values discourage public officials from accepting potentially inappropriate gifts, and stressed that institutions, particularly the judiciary, play a crucial role in ensuring accountability when rules are breached. He urged Nigerians to adopt higher moral standards, asserting that all citizens have a responsibility to suppress corruption, not just the bodies established by law.