Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), has publicly expressed regret over his past criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan, particularly regarding his handling of national security.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Monday, Galadima said that the worsening insecurity in Nigeria has led him to reassess his views on Jonathan’s administration. He now believes that the former president performed better in managing the country’s security compared to subsequent leaders.

Recalling events leading up to the 2015 general elections, Galadima noted that Jonathan postponed the polls for six weeks to tackle rising insecurity. He brought in mercenaries who, according to Galadima, helped stabilize the country, ensuring that elections were conducted in every polling unit nationwide.

Galadima contrasted Jonathan’s actions with the current government, claiming that if faced with a similar situation, it would allow insecurity to persist to manipulate electoral outcomes.

He said:

“I spoke to journalists and said something. I, seated here today, was once one of the greatest critics of Jonathan’s presidency. At the time, I didn’t know God would disgrace me by showing that Jonathan was, in fact, a saint and a better administrator than those who followed him.

“He is a leader of a developing country. Insecurity reached its peak just weeks before the election, and Jonathan suspended the polls for six weeks. He brought in mercenaries, and within that period, they stabilized Nigeria. Every polling unit held elections.

“If this government today faced such chaos shortly before an election, they would likely let it continue to manipulate the results. Jonathan, however, acted with foresight and humanity. He knew no incumbent could win a fair election, yet he postponed the vote and ensured security, demonstrating his commitment to a free and credible process.”

Galadima’s remarks underscore his changed perspective, highlighting the former president’s strategic and humane approach to national security and democratic governance.