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| '''Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan''', ], ], ] (born 20 November 1957<ref name=Source>Lawson Heyford, , ''The Source'' (Lagos), 11 December 2006</ref>) is the ] Head of State and current ]. Prior to his role as President, he served as ] and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Jonathan is a member of the ruling ] (PDP). | '''Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan''', ], ], ] (born 20 November 1957<ref name=Source>Lawson Heyford, , ''The Source'' (Lagos), 11 December 2006</ref>) is the ] Head of State and current ]. Prior to his role as President, he served as ] and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Jonathan is a member of the ruling ] (PDP). | ||
| ==Early |
==Early and personal life== | ||
| Jonathan was born in what is now ] to a family of canoe makers.<ref name=Source/><ref name="Al Jazeera Profile"></ref> | Jonathan was born in what is now ] to a family of canoe makers.<ref name=Source/><ref name="Al Jazeera Profile"></ref> | ||
| Jonathan holds a ] degree in Zoology in which he attained Second Class Honours. He holds an ] degree in Hydrobiology and Fisheries biology, and a ] degree in Zoology from the ]. He worked as an education inspector, ], and environmental-protection officer. He entered politics in 1998.<ref |
Jonathan holds a ] degree in Zoology in which he attained Second Class Honours. He holds an ] degree in Hydrobiology and Fisheries biology, and a ] degree in Zoology from the ]. He worked as an education inspector, ], and environmental-protection officer. He entered politics in 1998.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8510390.stm|title=Profile: Goodluck Jonathan|date=6 May 2010|publisher=BBC News|accessdate=6 May 2010}}</ref> | ||
| ⚫ | Jonathan and his wife ] have two children. He is a Christian. He comes from the ].<ref name="bbc">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8510390.stm|title=Profile: Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria's unlikely leader|publisher=BBC|date=22 February 2010|accessdate=22 February 2010}}</ref> | ||
| ==Gubernatorial career== | |||
| Jonathan joined the PDP in 1998 to run for Deputy Governor of Bayelsa, his home state, and was elected in 1999. His tenure was reportedly quiet until when, in 2005, his predecessor, ], was impeached after being charged with money laundering, making Jonathan the acting Governor.<ref name="BBC Profile"/><ref name="Al Jazeera Profile"/> | |||
| ⚫ | ==Vice |
||
| In 2007 Jonathan was selected to run as a vice-presidential candidate alongside Umaru Yar'Adua. An Al-Jazeera profile suggested that his selection fell into place "after other more influential politicians from the region were tainted by an anti-corruption investigation." It was important that Jonathan, a Christian from the south, be coupled with Yar'Adua, a Muslim from the north, to avoid conflict.<ref name="Al Jazeera Profile"/> | |||
| In 2007, President Jonathan declared his assets worth a total of N 295,304,420.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theafricantimes.com/profile.html|title= Profiles}}</ref> | |||
| As Vice-President, Jonathan was able to negotiate an agreement with the militants in the Niger Delta, who ceased to fight as part of a government amnesty.<ref name="BBC Profile"/> | |||
| ==Presidency== | ==Presidency== | ||
| === |
===Successor=== | ||
| ] in July 2010.]] | ] in July 2010.]] | ||
| ] | ] | ||
| ⚫ | President Umaru Yar'Adua died on 5 May 2010. Goodluck Jonathan was sworn in as Yar'Adua's successor on the following day,<ref></ref> becoming Nigeria's 14th Head of State. | ||
| ⚫ | |||
| ⚫ | He cited anti-corruption, power and electoral reforms as focuses of his administration. He stated that he came to office under "very sad and unusual circumstances".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://english.aljazeera.net/news/africa/2010/05/20105681641917266.html|title=Nigeria swears in new president|date=6 May 2010|work=Al-Jazeera|accessdate=6 May 2010}}</ref> | ||
| ⚫ | On 18 May 2010, the National Assembly approved Jonathan's nomination of former ] governor, ], for the position of Vice President.<ref>Punch Newspaper "NASS confirms Sambo as vice president" http://www.punchontheweb.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art201005185541038</ref><ref>, ''Liberty News''</ref> | ||
| ⚫ | President Umaru Yar'Adua died on 5 May 2010 |
||
| ⚫ | On 29 June 2010, Jonathan launched a ] page in accordance with his promise to interact more with Nigerians.<ref name="Facebook Fan-page"></ref> | ||
| ⚫ | On 2 August 2010 Jonathan launched 'Roadmap for Power Sector Reform‘,<ref name=Roadmap></ref> achieving stable electricity in Nigeria. | ||
| ===2011 Presidential Campaign=== | |||
| 0n 15 September 2010, Jonathan announced on the social media website, Facebook that he had decided to run for his first ever political election to hold public office as President of Nigeria in 2011.<ref name="Facebook Fan-page"></ref> | |||
| ⚫ | In the contest for the Peoples Democratic Party nomination, Goodluck Jonathan was up against the former vice-president ] and Mrs. Sarah Jubril. On 13 January 2011 the primary election results was announced in Eagle Square, Abuja with victory in two-thirds of the states of the federation counted and Jonathan was declared winner. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://saharareporters.com/news-page/goodluck-jonathan-defeats-atiku-pdp-presidential-primary|title= Goodluck Jonathan Defeats Atiku In PDP Presidential Primary}}</ref> | ||
| For the general election in 2011, Jonathan and vice-president Sambo attended political events and travelled the country to campaign for the nation's highest office. Jonathan won the general elections against General ] and Nuhu Ribadu with 59% of the votes.<ref name="Sworn in">{{cite news|title=Goodluck Jonathan sworn in as Nigerian president|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/29/goodluck-jonathan-nigerian-president|accessdate=24 October 2012|newspaper=The Guardian|date=29 May 2011}}</ref><ref>http://ribadu2011.com/</ref><ref></ref> On 18 April, Jonathan was declared the winner of the election. His victory was followed by violence in the ] over claims of vote rigging.<ref name="Sworn in"/> | |||
| ==Acting President (9 February 2010- 6 May 2010)== | |||
| On 9 February 2010, a motion from the Nigerian Senate confirmed the powers to Goodluck Johnathan to act as President of the federation.<ref name="BBC225">{{Cite news | |||
| |title = Nigeria's Goodluck Jonathan 'is acting president' | |title = Nigeria's Goodluck Jonathan 'is acting president' | ||
| |newspaper = BBC News | |newspaper = BBC News | ||
| Line 57: | Line 71: | ||
| |date = February 25, 2010 | |date = February 25, 2010 | ||
| |url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8537718.stm | |url = http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8537718.stm | ||
| |accessdate = February 25, 2010}}</ref> | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| On 10 February 2010, during his first day as acting president, Jonathan announced a minor cabinet reshuffle. Prince Adetokunbo Kayode who was the Labour Minister, was named Minister of Justice, to replace the controversial Mr Mike Aondoakaa. | |||
| ⚫ | Aondoakaa was named as the Minister of Special Duties, and his counterpart Ibrahim Kazaure, was named Minister of Labour.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201002110050.html|title= Jonathan Redeploys Aondoakaa}}</ref> | ||
| ⚫ | ==Vice Presidency (2007– 2010)== | ||
| ⚫ | On 18 May 2010, the National Assembly approved Jonathan's nomination of former ] governor, ], for the position of Vice President.<ref>Punch Newspaper "NASS confirms Sambo as vice president" http://www.punchontheweb.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art201005185541038</ref><ref>, ''Liberty News''</ref> | ||
| As Vice President, Jonathan took on a very low profile while recognizing the constitutional limits of the Vice President office, he participated in cabinet meetings and, by statute, membership in the National Security Council, the National Defence Council, Federal Executive Council, and the Chairman of National Economic Council. | |||
| It was suggested that Nigeria's groups of powerbrokers agreed to let him become acting president because he would not contest the looming elections and was not seen as a threat.<ref name="BBC Profile"/> | |||
| ==Lead Poisoning Outbreak== | |||
| ===2011 election=== | |||
| In January 2013, Jonathan reportedly promised $4 million to assist in cleaning up villages that have been affected by a lead poisoning outbreak. Over 400 children have died and ] said that releasing the funds “could be lifesaving for countless children.”<ref name="Hundreds of Children">{{cite news|last=McNeil, Jr.|first=Donald|title=Nigeria: Money Promised to Clean Up Lead That Killed Hundreds of Children|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/30/world/africa/nigeria-money-promised-to-clean-up-lead-that-killed-hundreds-of-children.html?ref=goodluckjonathan&_r=0|accessdate=7 February 2013|newspaper=New York Times|date=29 January 2013}}</ref> | |||
| ==Controversies== | |||
| ⚫ | Jonathan |
||
| ===World Cup 2010=== | |||
| On 18 April, Jonathan was declared the winner of the election, receiving 59% of the votes.<ref name="Sworn in">{{cite news|title=Goodluck Jonathan sworn in as Nigerian president|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2011/may/29/goodluck-jonathan-nigerian-president|accessdate=24 October 2012|newspaper=The Guardian|date=29 May 2011}}</ref><ref>http://ribadu2011.com/</ref><ref></ref> His victory was followed by violence in the ] over claims of vote rigging.<ref name="Sworn in"/> On 24 April, it was estimated that there were up to 1,000 politically-charged killings since November 2010, a total that Chidi Odinkalu of the Open Society Justice Initiative said hadn't been seen since the 1960s and 1980s and usually resulted in the overthrow of incumbent governments.<ref name="Deadly Clashes in Nigeria">{{cite news|last=Nossiter|first=Adam|title=Election Fuels Deadly Clashes in Nigeria|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2011/04/25/world/africa/25nigeria.html?ref=goodluckjonathan&_r=0|accessdate=13 March 2013|newspaper=The New York Times|date=24 April 2011}}</ref> The election was praised by international observers as the fairest in the country's existence. Jonathan was sworn in on 29 May 2011.<ref name="Nigeria's Historic Opportunity">{{cite news|last=Sachs|first=Jeffrey|title=Nigeria's Historic Opportunity|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/31/opinion/31iht-edsachs31.html?ref=goodluckjonathan&_r=0|accessdate=13 March 2013|newspaper=The New York Times|date=30 May 2011}}</ref> | |||
| In 2010 after the Nigerian football team failed to progress beyond the group stage at FIFA World Cup in South Africa, the Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan declared a two-year ban on the country's national football team from all international competitions. FIFA the world football governing body objected and stated that it would expel Nigeria from world football if the government interfered. Subsequently President Jonathan bowed to pressure and lifted the ban.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/football/world_cup_2010/8790094.stm|title= World Cup 2010: Nigerian president lifts ban on team}}</ref> | |||
| ===Domestic policy=== | |||
| When taking office, Goodluck Jonathan pledged to focus on the issues of corruption and violence in the Niger Delta, his home region.<ref name="NYT Bio">{{cite news|title=Goodluck Jonathan|url=http://topics.nytimes.com/top/reference/timestopics/people/j/goodluck_jonathan/index.html|accessdate=7 March 2013|newspaper=The New York Times|date=19 April 2011}}</ref> | |||
| ===Removal of fuel subsidy=== | |||
| ⚫ | On 2 August 2010 Jonathan launched 'Roadmap for Power Sector Reform‘,<ref name=Roadmap></ref> achieving stable electricity in Nigeria. | ||
| In January 2013, Jonathan reportedly promised $4 million to assist in cleaning up villages that have been effected by a lead poisoning outbreak. Over 400 children have died and ] said that releasing the funds “could be lifesaving for countless children.”<ref name="Hundreds of Children">{{cite news|last=McNeil, Jr.|first=Donald|title=Nigeria: Money Promised to Clean Up Lead That Killed Hundreds of Children|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2013/01/30/world/africa/nigeria-money-promised-to-clean-up-lead-that-killed-hundreds-of-children.html?ref=goodluckjonathan&_r=0|accessdate=7 February 2013|newspaper=New York Times|date=29 January 2013}}</ref> | |||
| On 13 December 2011, the 2012 fiscal year's budget removed any provisions for fuel subsidy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pmnewsnigeria.com/2011/12/13/nigerias-president-removes-petrol-subsidy/l|title= Nigeria’s President Removes Petrol Subsidy}}</ref> According to a poll carried out by the Alliance for Credible Elections (ACE- Nigeria), 80% of Nigerians opposed the plan to remove fuel subsidy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leadership.ng/nga/articles/10680/2011/12/16/80_nigerians_oppose_subsidy_removal_-_pollsters.html|title= 80% Of Nigerians Oppose Subsidy Removal - Pollsters}}</ref> | On 13 December 2011, the 2012 fiscal year's budget removed any provisions for fuel subsidy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pmnewsnigeria.com/2011/12/13/nigerias-president-removes-petrol-subsidy/l|title= Nigeria’s President Removes Petrol Subsidy}}</ref> According to a poll carried out by the Alliance for Credible Elections (ACE- Nigeria), 80% of Nigerians opposed the plan to remove fuel subsidy.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leadership.ng/nga/articles/10680/2011/12/16/80_nigerians_oppose_subsidy_removal_-_pollsters.html|title= 80% Of Nigerians Oppose Subsidy Removal - Pollsters}}</ref> | ||
| On 1 January 2012, the Jonathan administration announced the start of a controversial plan to end fuel subsidies.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-16379231|title=Nigeria fuel subsidy end raises protest fears | work=BBC News | date=1 January 2012}}</ref> Many prominent Nigerians have spoken out against the removal of fuel subsidy by the Jonathan administration. |
On 1 January 2012, the Jonathan administration announced the start of a controversial plan to end fuel subsidies.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-16379231|title=Nigeria fuel subsidy end raises protest fears | work=BBC News | date=1 January 2012}}</ref> Many prominent Nigerians have spoken out against the removal of fuel subsidy by the Jonathan administration. Former Petroleum Minister Professor Tam David-West has spoken out and expressed concern that the planned removal of fuel subsidy will squeeze the economy, increase inflation, and hurt both businesses and the public.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thenationonlineng.net/2011/index.php/business/27455-subsidy-removal%C2%A0will-choke-economy,-says-david-west.html|title= Subsidy removal will choke economy, says David-West}}</ref> | ||
| A former military Head of State and a former Minister for Petroleum & Natural Resources, General Buhari, urged President Jonathan not to remove fuel subsidy and to tackle corruption.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201112140239.html|title= Buhari to Jonathan - Leave Subsidy, Tackle Graft}}</ref> | |||
| ⚫ | Following the The Nigeria Labour Congress' warning that the country faces many strikes, the country unions followed up with strikes that were matched with civil protests from 9–13 January 2012. Protesters and groups called for President Jonathan to resign over the removal of fuel subsidies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pmnewsnigeria.com/2012/01/03/protests-in-lagos-ibadan-over-removal-of-subsidy/|title=Protests In Lagos, Ibadan Over Removal Of Subsidy}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201112140825.html|title=Subsidy Removal - CNPP Calls for Jonathan's Resignation}}</ref> After five days of national protests and strikes, on 16 January, Jonathan announced that the pump price of petroleum would be 97 ] per liter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.voanews.com/english/news/Nigerian-Unions-President-Fail-to-Resolve-Subsidy-Stalemate-137358213.html/|title=Nigeria Cuts Fuel Prices After Strike, Protests}}</ref> | ||
| General Yakubu Gowon, another former military Head of State, has warned the government that the country's infrastructure should be revived before fuel subsidy removal steps are taken.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thenationonlineng.net/2011/index.php/news/29461-gowon-to-jonathan%3A-don’t-remove-subsidy-now.html|title=Gowon to Jonathan: don’t remove subsidy now}}</ref> | |||
| ⚫ | |||
| ⚫ | In May 2012, President Jonathan changed the name of the ], renaming it the Moshood Abiola University in honour of the late ]. The action drew attention from critics -- among them were pro-Abiola advocates and parties involved with the university.<ref name="Gift Horse">{{cite web|last=Soyinka|first=Wole|title=Goodluck Jonathan’s Gift Horse By Wole Soyinka|url=http://dailypost.com.ng/2012/05/31/goodluck-jonathans-gift-horse-by-wole-soyinka/|publisher=Daily Post|accessdate=8 June 2012}}</ref><ref name=Unconstitutional>{{cite web|last=Babalola|first=Afe|title=Renaming UNILAG is illegal and unconstitutional (2)|url=http://www.punchng.com/opinion/renaming-unilag-is-illegal-and-unconstitutional-2/|publisher=Punch|accessdate=8 June 2012}}</ref><ref name="Reject renaming">{{cite news|last=Various|title=Tinubu, Fayemi, others reject UNILAG renaming|url=http://www.punchng.com/news/tinubu-fayemi-others-reject-unilag-renaming/|accessdate=8 June 2012|newspaper=Punch|date=1 June 2012}}</ref> Some critics cited that the President did not submit an appropriate bill to the legislature for the change; that the University's brand name should not be tampered with. The UNILAG Alumni Association commented that although they do not have prejudice against MKO Abiola, they were concerned "that neither the Governing Council nor the University Senate nor any other stakeholder was consulted before the change was announced."<ref name="Name Change UNILAG">{{cite news|last=Sahara Reporters|title=UNILAG Alumni Association rejects institution’s name change by Jonathan|url=http://www.informationnigeria.org/2012/05/unilag-alumni-association-rejects-institutions-name-change-by-jonathan.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter|accessdate=8 June 2012|newspaper=Information Nigeria|date=30 May 2012}}</ref> ] congratulated Jonathan for taking action, but urged him to "do it right", adding that "we must be careful not to localise or sectionalise MKO". The President has attempted to regularize the renaming of the school by submitting a bill for an amendment of the University's establishing law to the legislature. | ||
| Former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, joined millions of Nigerians protesting against the removal of fuel subsidy by the Jonathan administration, saying that the action is ill-timed.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisdaylive.com/articles/ibb-deregulation-ill-timed/106317/|title=IBB: Deregulation Ill-timed}}</ref> | |||
| ===National security=== | |||
| On 26 August 2011, after the UN building in ] was bombed by ], Jonathan announced that it was not merely an attack on Nigeria, but on the international community. He told reporters that "we would work together with the UN and other world leaders to ensure that terrorism is brought under control."<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14696446 | work=BBC News | title=Nigerian leader vows to fight terrorism after UN attack | date=28 August 2011}}</ref> In early 2012, Jonathan expressed his belief that, for the first time, Boko Haram sympathizers are part of his government and its related securities agencies.<ref name="Officials back">{{cite news|title=Nigeria's Goodluck Jonathan: Officials back Boko Haram|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-16462891|accessdate=11 March 2013|newspaper=BBC|date=8 January 2012}}</ref> In response to a Muslim leader's suggestion that Boko Haram be granted amnesty to end the violence, Jonathan said that his government can't grant this because it is unclear who the members are and what they want.<ref name="amnesty call">{{cite news|title=Nigeria's president rejects Boko Haram amnesty call|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-21710464|accessdate=11 March 2013|newspaper=BBC|date=7 March 2013}}</ref> | |||
| ⚫ | Following the The Nigeria Labour Congress' warning that the country faces many strikes, the country unions followed up with strikes that were matched with civil protests from 9–13 January 2012. Protesters and groups called for President Jonathan to resign over the removal of fuel subsidies.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pmnewsnigeria.com/2012/01/03/protests-in-lagos-ibadan-over-removal-of-subsidy/|title=Protests In Lagos, Ibadan Over Removal Of Subsidy}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://allafrica.com/stories/201112140825.html|title=Subsidy Removal - CNPP Calls for Jonathan's Resignation}}</ref> After five days of national protests and strikes, on 16 January, Jonathan announced that the pump price of petroleum would be 97 ] per liter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.voanews.com/english/news/Nigerian-Unions-President-Fail-to-Resolve-Subsidy-Stalemate-137358213.html/|title=Nigeria Cuts Fuel Prices After Strike, Protests}}</ref> | ||
| ⚫ | In response to the ]'s attack on a oil pipeline on 4 February 2012 in ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-02-06/nigerian-militant-group-mend-says-it-attacked-eni-pipeline.html|title=Nigerian Militant Group MEND Says It Attacked Eni Pipeline}}</ref> the Senate President David Mark stated that the security situation in the country is "intolerable".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5ggRt4Rl9dBkhKvpkWdPw-cQuNI7w?docId=CNG.560db9496881b830cd81321b1814191e.c1/|title= Nigeria's security situation 'intolerable': senate president}}</ref> | ||
| ===1st October 2010 Independence Day Bomb Blast=== | |||
| ⚫ | During his South African magistrate court trial on 2 May 2012, |
||
| ⚫ | During his South African magistrate court trial on 2 May 2012, MEND's (Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta) former leader ] came out and insisted that President Jonathan masterminded bomb attacks. He told the court that President Jonathan and his aides organised the October 1, 2010 independence day bomb attacks in Abuja in a desperate political strategy to demonize political opponents, including the former military President General Ibrahim Babangida, and to win popular sympathy ahead of the 2011 elections.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thestreetjournal.org/2012/05/%E2%80%9Cjonathan-begged-me-to-blame-north-for-october-1-blasts%E2%80%9D-henry-okah-claims/|title= "Jonathan Begged Me To Blame North For October 1 Blasts", Henry Okah Claims}}</ref> | ||
| ===Image=== | |||
| Jonathan is seen as lacking the charisma of many previous Nigerian leaders, having been described as having an "underwhelming personality" by a former US Ambassador.<ref name="Al Jazeera Profile"/> Samuel Amadi, director of policy at the Good Governance Group, noted that Jonathan " not obsessed with power...e doesn’t have the usual swagger of Nigerian politicians.”<ref name="Stirs Hopes">{{cite news|last=NOSSITER|first=ADAM|title=An Accidental Leader Stirs Hopes in Nigeria|url=http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/20/world/africa/20nigeria.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0|accessdate=7 March 2013|newspaper=The New York Times|date=19 February 2010}}</ref> | |||
| The Nigerian Presidency has denied the allegations of terrorism levelled against President Jonathan. A media statement was issued on 2 May 2012, acknowledging the accusations from Okah. The statement went on to say that: “The Presidency categorically affirms that these allegations are false in their entirety and without any factual foundation." The Presidency also expressed no interest in commenting further for the time being, but plans to "make a full representation on the matter to the court when the trial opens."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thisdaylive.com/articles/okah-lied-over-oct-2010-bombing/114992/|title= Okah Lied over Oct 2010 Bombing}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.channelstv.com/home/2012/05/02/jonathan-denies-allegations-that-he-masterminded-independence-day-bombings/|title=Jonathan denies allegations that he masterminded Independence Day bombings}}</ref> | |||
| ⚫ | On 29 June 2010, Jonathan launched a ] page in accordance with his promise to interact more with Nigerians.<ref name="Facebook Fan-page"></ref> | ||
| ⚫ | ===Renaming of the University of Lagos=== | ||
| ==Personal life== | |||
| ⚫ | In May 2012, President Jonathan changed the name of the ], renaming it the Moshood Abiola University in honour of the late ]. The action drew attention from critics -- among them were pro-Abiola advocates and parties involved with the university.<ref name="Gift Horse">{{cite web|last=Soyinka|first=Wole|title=Goodluck Jonathan’s Gift Horse By Wole Soyinka|url=http://dailypost.com.ng/2012/05/31/goodluck-jonathans-gift-horse-by-wole-soyinka/|publisher=Daily Post|accessdate=8 June 2012}}</ref><ref name=Unconstitutional>{{cite web|last=Babalola|first=Afe|title=Renaming UNILAG is illegal and unconstitutional (2)|url=http://www.punchng.com/opinion/renaming-unilag-is-illegal-and-unconstitutional-2/|publisher=Punch|accessdate=8 June 2012}}</ref><ref name="Reject renaming">{{cite news|last=Various|title=Tinubu, Fayemi, others reject UNILAG renaming|url=http://www.punchng.com/news/tinubu-fayemi-others-reject-unilag-renaming/|accessdate=8 June 2012|newspaper=Punch|date=1 June 2012}}</ref> Some critics cited that the President did not submit an appropriate bill to the legislature for the change; that the University's brand name should not be tampered with. The UNILAG Alumni Association commented that although they do not have prejudice against MKO Abiola, they were concerned "that neither the Governing Council nor the University Senate nor any other stakeholder was consulted before the change was announced."<ref name="Name Change UNILAG">{{cite news|last=Sahara Reporters|title=UNILAG Alumni Association rejects institution’s name change by Jonathan|url=http://www.informationnigeria.org/2012/05/unilag-alumni-association-rejects-institutions-name-change-by-jonathan.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter|accessdate=8 June 2012|newspaper=Information Nigeria|date=30 May 2012}}</ref> ] congratulated Jonathan for taking action, but urged him to "do it right", adding that "we must be careful not to localise or sectionalise MKO". The President has attempted to regularize the renaming of the school by submitting a bill for an amendment of the University's establishing law to the legislature. | ||
| ⚫ | Jonathan and his wife ] have two children. He is a Christian. He comes from the ].<ref name="bbc">{{cite news|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8510390.stm|title=Profile: Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria's unlikely leader|publisher=BBC|date=22 February 2010|accessdate=22 February 2010}}</ref> | ||
| ==Security challenges== | |||
| On 26 August 2011, after the UN building in ] was bombed by ], Jonathan announced that it was not merely an attack on Nigeria, but on the international community. He told reporters that "we would work together with the UN and other world leaders to ensure that terrorism is brought under control."<ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14696446 | work=BBC News | title=Nigerian leader vows to fight terrorism after UN attack | date=28 August 2011}}</ref> | |||
| ⚫ | In response to the ]'s attack on a oil pipeline on 4 February 2012 in ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.businessweek.com/news/2012-02-06/nigerian-militant-group-mend-says-it-attacked-eni-pipeline.html|title=Nigerian Militant Group MEND Says It Attacked Eni Pipeline}}</ref> the Senate President David Mark stated that the security situation in the country is "intolerable".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5ggRt4Rl9dBkhKvpkWdPw-cQuNI7w?docId=CNG.560db9496881b830cd81321b1814191e.c1/|title= Nigeria's security situation 'intolerable': senate president}}</ref> | ||
| ==References== | ==References== | ||
| {{Reflist|2}} | {{Reflist|2}} | ||
| ==Further reading== | ==Further reading== | ||
| * Ayoade, John A., and Adeoye A. Akinsanya, eds. ''Nigeria's Critical Election, 2011'' (Lexington Books; 2012) | * Ayoade, John A., and Adeoye A. Akinsanya, eds. ''Nigeria's Critical Election, 2011'' (Lexington Books; 2012) | ||
Revision as of 05:55, 29 March 2013
| Goodluck Ebele Jonathan | |
|---|---|
 Jonathan in January 2013, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. | |
| President of Nigeria | |
| Incumbent | |
| Assumed office 6 May 2010 Acting: 9 February 2010 – 6 May 2010 | |
| Vice President | Namadi Sambo |
| Preceded by | Umaru Yar'Adua |
| Vice President of Nigeria | |
| In office 29 May 2007 – 6 May 2010 | |
| President | Umaru Yar'Adua |
| Preceded by | Atiku Abubakar |
| Succeeded by | Namadi Sambo |
| Governor of Bayelsa | |
| In office 9 December 2005 – 28 May 2007 | |
| Preceded by | Diepreye Alamieyeseigha |
| Succeeded by | Timipre Sylva |
| Personal details | |
| Born | (1957-11-20) 20 November 1957 (age 67) Ogbia, Nigeria |
| Political party | People's Democratic Party |
| Spouse | Patience Jonathan |
| Alma mater | University of Port Harcourt |
| Profession | Zoologist |
Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan, GCFR, BNER, GCON (born 20 November 1957) is the 14th Head of State and current President of Nigeria. Prior to his role as President, he served as Governor of Bayelsa State and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Jonathan is a member of the ruling People's Democratic Party (PDP).
Early and personal life
Jonathan was born in what is now Bayelsa State to a family of canoe makers. Jonathan holds a B.S. degree in Zoology in which he attained Second Class Honours. He holds an M.Sc. degree in Hydrobiology and Fisheries biology, and a Ph.D. degree in Zoology from the University of Port Harcourt. He worked as an education inspector, lecturer, and environmental-protection officer. He entered politics in 1998.
Jonathan and his wife Patience have two children. He is a Christian. He comes from the Ijaw.
In 2007, President Jonathan declared his assets worth a total of N 295,304,420.
Presidency
Successor
President Umaru Yar'Adua died on 5 May 2010. Goodluck Jonathan was sworn in as Yar'Adua's successor on the following day, becoming Nigeria's 14th Head of State. He cited anti-corruption, power and electoral reforms as focuses of his administration. He stated that he came to office under "very sad and unusual circumstances".
On 18 May 2010, the National Assembly approved Jonathan's nomination of former Kaduna State governor, Namadi Sambo, for the position of Vice President.
On 29 June 2010, Jonathan launched a Facebook page in accordance with his promise to interact more with Nigerians.
On 2 August 2010 Jonathan launched 'Roadmap for Power Sector Reform‘, achieving stable electricity in Nigeria.
2011 Presidential Campaign
0n 15 September 2010, Jonathan announced on the social media website, Facebook that he had decided to run for his first ever political election to hold public office as President of Nigeria in 2011.
In the contest for the Peoples Democratic Party nomination, Goodluck Jonathan was up against the former vice-president Atiku Abubakar and Mrs. Sarah Jubril. On 13 January 2011 the primary election results was announced in Eagle Square, Abuja with victory in two-thirds of the states of the federation counted and Jonathan was declared winner.
For the general election in 2011, Jonathan and vice-president Sambo attended political events and travelled the country to campaign for the nation's highest office. Jonathan won the general elections against General Muhammadu Buhari and Nuhu Ribadu with 59% of the votes. On 18 April, Jonathan was declared the winner of the election. His victory was followed by violence in the north over claims of vote rigging.
Acting President (9 February 2010- 6 May 2010)
On 9 February 2010, a motion from the Nigerian Senate confirmed the powers to Goodluck Johnathan to act as President of the federation. On 10 February 2010, during his first day as acting president, Jonathan announced a minor cabinet reshuffle. Prince Adetokunbo Kayode who was the Labour Minister, was named Minister of Justice, to replace the controversial Mr Mike Aondoakaa. Aondoakaa was named as the Minister of Special Duties, and his counterpart Ibrahim Kazaure, was named Minister of Labour.
Vice Presidency (2007– 2010)
As Vice President, Jonathan took on a very low profile while recognizing the constitutional limits of the Vice President office, he participated in cabinet meetings and, by statute, membership in the National Security Council, the National Defence Council, Federal Executive Council, and the Chairman of National Economic Council.
Lead Poisoning Outbreak
In January 2013, Jonathan reportedly promised $4 million to assist in cleaning up villages that have been affected by a lead poisoning outbreak. Over 400 children have died and Human Rights Watch said that releasing the funds “could be lifesaving for countless children.”
Controversies
World Cup 2010
In 2010 after the Nigerian football team failed to progress beyond the group stage at FIFA World Cup in South Africa, the Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan declared a two-year ban on the country's national football team from all international competitions. FIFA the world football governing body objected and stated that it would expel Nigeria from world football if the government interfered. Subsequently President Jonathan bowed to pressure and lifted the ban.
Removal of fuel subsidy
On 13 December 2011, the 2012 fiscal year's budget removed any provisions for fuel subsidy. According to a poll carried out by the Alliance for Credible Elections (ACE- Nigeria), 80% of Nigerians opposed the plan to remove fuel subsidy.
On 1 January 2012, the Jonathan administration announced the start of a controversial plan to end fuel subsidies. Many prominent Nigerians have spoken out against the removal of fuel subsidy by the Jonathan administration. Former Petroleum Minister Professor Tam David-West has spoken out and expressed concern that the planned removal of fuel subsidy will squeeze the economy, increase inflation, and hurt both businesses and the public.
A former military Head of State and a former Minister for Petroleum & Natural Resources, General Buhari, urged President Jonathan not to remove fuel subsidy and to tackle corruption.
General Yakubu Gowon, another former military Head of State, has warned the government that the country's infrastructure should be revived before fuel subsidy removal steps are taken.
Former military president, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, joined millions of Nigerians protesting against the removal of fuel subsidy by the Jonathan administration, saying that the action is ill-timed.
Following the The Nigeria Labour Congress' warning that the country faces many strikes, the country unions followed up with strikes that were matched with civil protests from 9–13 January 2012. Protesters and groups called for President Jonathan to resign over the removal of fuel subsidies. After five days of national protests and strikes, on 16 January, Jonathan announced that the pump price of petroleum would be 97 naira per liter.
1st October 2010 Independence Day Bomb Blast
During his South African magistrate court trial on 2 May 2012, MEND's (Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta) former leader Henry Okah came out and insisted that President Jonathan masterminded bomb attacks. He told the court that President Jonathan and his aides organised the October 1, 2010 independence day bomb attacks in Abuja in a desperate political strategy to demonize political opponents, including the former military President General Ibrahim Babangida, and to win popular sympathy ahead of the 2011 elections.
The Nigerian Presidency has denied the allegations of terrorism levelled against President Jonathan. A media statement was issued on 2 May 2012, acknowledging the accusations from Okah. The statement went on to say that: “The Presidency categorically affirms that these allegations are false in their entirety and without any factual foundation." The Presidency also expressed no interest in commenting further for the time being, but plans to "make a full representation on the matter to the court when the trial opens."
Renaming of the University of Lagos
In May 2012, President Jonathan changed the name of the University of Lagos, renaming it the Moshood Abiola University in honour of the late MKO Abiola. The action drew attention from critics -- among them were pro-Abiola advocates and parties involved with the university. Some critics cited that the President did not submit an appropriate bill to the legislature for the change; that the University's brand name should not be tampered with. The UNILAG Alumni Association commented that although they do not have prejudice against MKO Abiola, they were concerned "that neither the Governing Council nor the University Senate nor any other stakeholder was consulted before the change was announced." Bola Tinubu congratulated Jonathan for taking action, but urged him to "do it right", adding that "we must be careful not to localise or sectionalise MKO". The President has attempted to regularize the renaming of the school by submitting a bill for an amendment of the University's establishing law to the legislature.
Security challenges
On 26 August 2011, after the UN building in Abuja was bombed by Boko Haram, Jonathan announced that it was not merely an attack on Nigeria, but on the international community. He told reporters that "we would work together with the UN and other world leaders to ensure that terrorism is brought under control."
In response to the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta's attack on a oil pipeline on 4 February 2012 in Bayelsa, the Senate President David Mark stated that the security situation in the country is "intolerable".
References
- ^ Lawson Heyford, "Jonathan: A Colossus at 49", The Source (Lagos), 11 December 2006
- Profile: Goodluck Jonathan
- "Profile: Goodluck Jonathan". BBC News. 6 May 2010. Retrieved 6 May 2010.
- "Profile: Goodluck Jonathan, Nigeria's unlikely leader". BBC. 22 February 2010. Retrieved 22 February 2010.
- "Profiles".
- President,Commander-In-Chief.aspx News Agency of Nigeria story on newly sworn President Jonathan
- "Nigeria swears in new president". Al-Jazeera. 6 May 2010. Retrieved 6 May 2010.
- Punch Newspaper "NASS confirms Sambo as vice president" http://www.punchontheweb.com/Articl.aspx?theartic=Art201005185541038
- "National Assembly confirms Sambo as Vice President", Liberty News
- ^ Facebook fan-page
- Roadmap for Power Sector Reform
- "Goodluck Jonathan Defeats Atiku In PDP Presidential Primary".
- ^ "Goodluck Jonathan sworn in as Nigerian president". The Guardian. 29 May 2011. Retrieved 24 October 2012.
- http://ribadu2011.com/
- CNN report on the 2011 general election in Nigeria
- "Nigeria's Goodluck Jonathan 'is acting president'". BBC News. BBC. February 25, 2010. Retrieved February 25, 2010.
- "Jonathan Redeploys Aondoakaa".
- McNeil, Jr., Donald (29 January 2013). "Nigeria: Money Promised to Clean Up Lead That Killed Hundreds of Children". New York Times. Retrieved 7 February 2013.
- "World Cup 2010: Nigerian president lifts ban on team".
- "Nigeria's President Removes Petrol Subsidy".
- "80% Of Nigerians Oppose Subsidy Removal - Pollsters".
- "Nigeria fuel subsidy end raises protest fears". BBC News. 1 January 2012.
- "Subsidy removal will choke economy, says David-West".
- "Buhari to Jonathan - Leave Subsidy, Tackle Graft".
- "Gowon to Jonathan: don't remove subsidy now".
- "IBB: Deregulation Ill-timed".
- "Protests In Lagos, Ibadan Over Removal Of Subsidy".
- "Subsidy Removal - CNPP Calls for Jonathan's Resignation".
- "Nigeria Cuts Fuel Prices After Strike, Protests".
- ""Jonathan Begged Me To Blame North For October 1 Blasts", Henry Okah Claims".
- "Okah Lied over Oct 2010 Bombing".
- "Jonathan denies allegations that he masterminded Independence Day bombings".
- Soyinka, Wole. "Goodluck Jonathan's Gift Horse By Wole Soyinka". Daily Post. Retrieved 8 June 2012.
- Babalola, Afe. "Renaming UNILAG is illegal and unconstitutional (2)". Punch. Retrieved 8 June 2012.
- Various (1 June 2012). "Tinubu, Fayemi, others reject UNILAG renaming". Punch. Retrieved 8 June 2012.
- Sahara Reporters (30 May 2012). "UNILAG Alumni Association rejects institution's name change by Jonathan". Information Nigeria. Retrieved 8 June 2012.
- "Nigerian leader vows to fight terrorism after UN attack". BBC News. 28 August 2011.
- "Nigerian Militant Group MEND Says It Attacked Eni Pipeline".
- "Nigeria's security situation 'intolerable': senate president".
Further reading
- Ayoade, John A., and Adeoye A. Akinsanya, eds. Nigeria's Critical Election, 2011 (Lexington Books; 2012)
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded byDiepreye Alamieyeseigha | Governor of Bayelsa State 2005–2007 |
Succeeded byTimipre Sylva |
| Preceded byUmaru Yar'Adua | President of Nigeria 2010–present |
Incumbent |
| Party political offices | ||
| Preceded byUmaru Yar'Adua | People's Democratic Party presidential nominee 2011 Won |
Succeeded byMost recent |
| Diplomatic posts | ||
| Preceded byUmaru Yar'Adua | Chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States 2010–2012 |
Succeeded byAlassane Ouattara |
| Heads of state of Nigeria | ||
|---|---|---|
| Queen (1960–1963) |  | |
| President of the First Republic (1963–1966) | ||
| Military regime (1966–1979) | ||
| President of the Second Republic (1979–1983) | ||
| Military regime (1983–1999) | ||
| President of the Fourth Republic (from 1999) | ||
| *Civilian; headed transition to abortive Third Republic | ||
| Governors of Bayelsa State | |
|---|---|
| Vice presidents of Nigeria | ||
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 | ||
| † military | ||
| Cabinet of President Goodluck Jonathan | |
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| The Cabinet of President Goodluck Jonathan which was formed during his time as Acting President, on 6 April 2010, is shown below. Ministers of State are not shown. | |
| Agriculture |
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| Aviation |
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| Commerce & Industry |
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| Culture & Tourism |
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| Defence |
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| Education |
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| Environment |
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| FCT |
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| Finance |
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| Foreign Affairs |
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| Health |
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| Information & Communications |
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| Interior |
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| Justice |
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| Labour & Productivity |
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| Lands & Urban Development |
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| Mines & Steel Development |
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| National Planning Commission |
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| National Sports Commission |
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| Niger Delta Affairs |
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| Petroleum Resources |
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| Police Affairs |
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| Power |
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| Science & Technology |
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| Special Duties |
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| Transport |
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| Women Affairs |
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| Works |
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| Youth Development |
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| See also Cabinet of President Umaru Yar'Adua | |
| Heads of state of OPEC member states | |
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