Former President Goodluck Jonathan has emphasized that politics should not be treated as a playground for unruly behavior.

He made the remarks on Thursday during the 10th anniversary dinner of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, which also marked his 68th birthday. Jonathan warned that Nigeria’s democracy is under strain from reckless political conduct, stressing that leadership must be rooted in responsibility, nation-building, and restraint.

He added that sustaining democratic stability requires civility and a genuine commitment to accountability from all political actors. The event brought together a distinguished mix of African statesmen, diplomats, political leaders, and business figures.

“Politics is not for rascals. It is for people who want to build, not destroy,” Jonathan said, cautioning that the rising tide of aggressive rhetoric and hostile political behavior is weakening democratic resilience across the continent.

Reflecting on the foundation’s work, Jonathan noted that over the past decade it has focused on diplomacy, governance reforms, peacebuilding, mediation, and strengthening democratic institutions.

He also expressed concern over the recent spate of violent attacks and abductions in the country, urging leaders at all levels to take their responsibilities seriously by protecting lives and safeguarding the nation’s democratic order.