Former President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Ayo Oritsejafor, has defended former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, arguing that many of those who branded him “clueless” during his tenure are now in government and have failed to improve the country’s fortunes.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Oritsejafor dismissed criticisms that insecurity and corruption flourished under Jonathan’s administration, insisting that some of the strongest critics of the former president are now occupying influential positions in government.
According to the cleric, individuals who organized and supported nationwide protests against Jonathan have since assumed leadership roles but have not delivered the solutions they once promised.
“Where are those people now? Are they not the same people today who are in power?” Oritsejafor asked, noting that many who accused Jonathan of lacking direction are now responsible for steering the country.
He argued that Jonathan faced significant opposition during his presidency, particularly in Lagos and other parts of the country, which he said hindered the implementation of some of the policies the former president sought to pursue.
Reflecting on his support for Jonathan during the 2015 presidential election, Oritsejafor said he had no regrets and maintained that his position at the time was justified.
The outspoken cleric also delivered a scathing assessment of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, claiming that the country’s economic and security challenges have worsened under the current government.
He expressed concern over Nigeria’s direction and questioned whether the administration possesses the capacity to address the nation’s mounting difficulties.
While stopping short of calling for Tinubu’s resignation, Oritsejafor urged the president to realistically evaluate his ability to lead the country out of its current challenges rather than projecting confidence without clear solutions.
The former CAN president further criticized the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, arguing that many Nigerians have become disillusioned due to persistent economic hardship and insecurity.
According to him, hope among ordinary citizens has diminished significantly, with many relying solely on faith in God amid worsening living conditions.
Oritsejafor concluded by advising President Tinubu against seeking re-election, warning that Nigerians should not be subjected to a continuation of what he described as the country’s current difficulties.
