Former President Goodluck Jonathan has accused the administration of his successor, Muhammadu Buhari, of launching a political witch-hunt against him and his close allies following the historic 2015 general election in which he lost power.
Jonathan, who made the allegations during a public engagement, revealed that several of his associates were targeted by anti-corruption agencies under Buhari’s leadership, with some forced into exile and others subjected to relentless legal harassment. He claimed that his family was not spared, alleging that security agencies, particularly the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), froze the bank accounts of his wife and used state power to intimidate those linked to him.
“My Friends Were Hunted”
The former president expressed sadness over what he described as the deliberate victimization of individuals who served in his administration. According to him, rather than focus on building national unity and strengthening institutions, the Buhari-led government appeared more interested in settling political scores.
“Instead of moving the country forward, they went after my friends and family,” Jonathan said. “Many of my allies were harassed, and some were driven into hiding. Even my wife’s accounts were frozen without justification.”
Anti-Corruption or Political Targeting?
While the Buhari government championed its anti-corruption crusade as one of its central missions, critics—including Jonathan—have long argued that the campaign was selective, targeting mostly opposition figures and former administration officials while shielding allies of the ruling party.
Jonathan suggested that the anti-corruption war, while necessary, was used as a political tool to discredit the previous government and to silence dissenting voices. He also implied that some of those within his own camp failed to stand up against the pressure, which contributed to the erosion of his political base after leaving office.
Presidency Reacts
In response to Jonathan’s claims, presidential spokespeople have repeatedly maintained that the anti-corruption drive under Buhari was impartial and based on the need to clean up government institutions. They argue that any investigation or prosecution carried out was within the boundaries of the law and aimed at recovering stolen public funds.
The Buhari administration also pointed to reforms such as the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and increased transparency measures as proof of its commitment to fighting corruption beyond political interests.
A Tainted Legacy Battle
Jonathan’s peaceful handover of power in 2015 remains one of the most celebrated moments in Nigeria’s democratic history. However, the post-election period has been marred by bitterness and accusations of political persecution.
As Nigeria looks ahead to future elections and continued governance reforms, the lingering tension between past and present administrations highlights the enduring challenge of separating justice from politics in the country’s democracy.
