Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed a heartfelt desire to end human suffering and promote peace both in Nigeria and across the world. Speaking during a reception held in his honour in Abuja, Jonathan said he would be a much happier man if he had the power to eliminate the pain and struggles faced by people daily.
The event was organized by his friends and associates to celebrate his recent recognition with the Sunhak Peace Prize by the Sunhak Peace Prize Foundation in South Korea—a prestigious honour awarded to global leaders committed to peace and humanitarian service.
The former President, alongside his wife Patience Jonathan, received the award for his commitment to peaceful leadership and efforts to resolve conflict. Jonathan emotionally reflected on his frequent encounters with struggling citizens, admitting that their plight weighs heavily on him.
“I wish I could end the suffering of people that I come across daily,” Jonathan said. “I always feel bad seeing people in pain, and I will remain committed to the pursuit of peace for as long as I live.”
The event was chaired by 2023 Labour Party Presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who praised Jonathan for fostering peace during his tenure as president. Obi noted that the reception was timely, taking place on Easter Sunday, a day symbolizing peace and reconciliation.
Other prominent personalities at the event included former aides, governors, religious and political leaders. Among them was the former Chaplain of Aso Rock, Prof. Obioma Unwuzurumba, who described Jonathan as a kind-hearted leader Nigeria failed to re-elect in 2015.
“President Jonathan is a gift Nigeria rejected,” he said. “He is a man of peace, and we lost a golden opportunity to move towards peace and prosperity.”
Former Minister of Information, Labaran Maku, also lauded Jonathan, saying his peaceful acceptance of election results without inciting chaos was a rare and admirable act in Nigerian politics.
“It’s remarkable that a peace foundation from faraway South Korea recognized Jonathan for his peaceful disposition. He is a true patriot who deserves our prayers and respect,” Maku stated.
Robert Azibaola, the event organizer and Managing Director of Zeetin Engineering Ltd, called Jonathan a peacemaker who remains dedicated to resolving conflicts both locally and internationally.
The Sunhak Peace Prize was established by Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, widow of Rev. Sun Myung Moon, to promote peace, combat poverty, and address environmental challenges worldwide.
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