Politics

Leadership should shift to under 50s – Jonathan

Jonathan cited the example of General Murtala Muhammed, who became Head of State at 38 and, despite serving for only 200 days, left what he described as a lasting legacy of decisive and visionary leadership.

Published

2 months ago

February 12, 2026

OCHEFA

151 Views

“If we are looking for people who can run nations in Africa, we should look within the 25 to 50 age brackets. That is when you can be vibrant, physically strong and mentally sound,” said former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Jonathan gave the insight on Thursday in Abuja during the International Memorial Lecture and Leadership Conference to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of former Head of State, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed.

He urged African nations to promote younger leaders, arguing that those between the ages of 25 and 50 are better equipped to handle the physical and mental demands of modern governance.

Reflecting on his time in office, Jonathan said leadership requires exceptional stamina and resilience, noting that he often slept for only a few hours while serving as president.

Jonathan aligns his remarks with the objectives of Nigeria’s “Not Too Young To Run” movement, which advocates reduced age limits for elective positions to encourage youth participation in politics.

“Murtala’s leadership sent a clear message that governance is about serving the national interest, not personal ambition,” he said.

He also referenced General Yakubu Gowon, who assumed office at 32 and later introduced the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing him as another example of youthful leadership at a critical period in Nigeria’s history.

However, Jonathan cautioned that age alone does not guarantee effective leadership, emphasising the importance of discipline, patriotism and strong institutions.

Related Topics:African leaders age Featured General Murtala Ramat Muhammed 50th memorial anniversary lecture Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

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Politics

Why I switch parties — Peter Obi

People were not playing by the rules. It was transactional. I cannot be part of a transactional system,” Obi said.

Published

18 hours ago

April 13, 2026

OCHEFA

25 Views

Peter Obi has defended his record of moving between political parties, saying he leaves when a party abandons principles and begins to run on transactions and personal interests.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate spoke on Arise TV on Monday, where he addressed why he has switched parties numerous times.Obi said his first switch, from APGA to the PDP, was driven by a dispute with his successor as Anambra governor.

He said that he chose to leave rather than allow the conflict to damage governance in the state.

“I moved from APGA to the PDP because of issues with my successor.

Rather than allow it to become destructive to governance, I moved out,” he said.

He said that the PDP offered no better environment, describing the party as one where members ignored rules and reduced politics to a game of favours.

“People were not playing by the rules. It was transactional. I cannot be part of a transactional system,” Obi said.

He also pointed to internal crises and legal disputes within the Labour Party as factors that eroded its viability as a platform.

Obi is currently working with opposition figures linked to the African Democratic Congress as part of efforts to build a unified front ahead of future elections.

Politics

ADC gets new venue for convention

The ADC, in a tweet on its X handle, said the national convention will take place at the Rainbow event center in Abuja

Published

19 hours ago

April 13, 2026

OCHEFA

26 Views

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, said it has gotten a new venue for its national convention scheduled to hold in Abuja on Tuesday, April 14.

The ADC, in a tweet on its X handle, said the national convention will take place at the Rainbow event center in Abuja.

The party said that the event center will provide a central, accessible, and fitting venue for delegates and stakeholders expected from across the country.

Politics

Despite Court, El-Rufai Eyes on ADC Convention

Shortly before entering the courtroom, the former governor was overheard exchanging words with a close associate about the forthcoming convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Published

1 day ago

April 13, 2026

OCHEFA

37 Views

• El-Rufai arrives court Monday April 13, 2025 (Photo / Ohibaba.com)

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, on Monday appeared at the Kaduna State High Court as proceedings resumed in his ongoing trial instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

A bail hearing in the case has been scheduled for April 14.

El-Rufai is being tried alongside Amadu Sule over allegations including abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage, among other charges.

Shortly before entering the courtroom, the former governor was overheard exchanging words with a close associate about the forthcoming convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

“So tomorrow is our convention, right?” he asked.

The associate responded, “God willing,” suggesting that despite his legal challenges, El-Rufai remains actively engaged in party affairs.

The former Governor is facing another 10-count charge at the Federal High Court in Kaduna, bordering on alleged abuse of office, money laundering, and fraud involving N579.6 million and $1.1 million, filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).