Former President Goodluck Jonathan recently described the dangerous steps he took to bring stability to the Niger Delta. Speaking at the De Mangrove Conversation in Yenagoa, he explained that he once entered a militant stronghold without any armed protection to initiate peace talks.
Jonathan noted that his background as a scientist and his tenure in various leadership roles allowed him to deeply understand the region’s struggles. During his time as vice president, he faced significant opposition from security leaders when he insisted on visiting a militant camp unarmed. He viewed this gesture as essential for fostering the trust necessary to launch the Niger Delta Amnesty Programme.
Recounting the event, he shared how he commanded his security detail to surrender their weapons to police and SSS officials before proceeding to the site. He walked between lines of armed fighters to reach the meeting place, where he spent 90 minutes negotiating. This bold move proved successful, eventually leading to a lasting peace process. Jonathan remains firm that the federal government must prioritize the Niger Delta, particularly by addressing long-standing environmental issues and regional neglect.
