Olayiwola Matthew
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has denied accusing the late President Muhammadu Buhari of having links with the Boko Haram terrorist group.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan explained that his comments were grossly misrepresented.
Jonathan made the comments while speaking at the public presentation of “Scars,” a book written by former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Lucky Irabor.
He mentioned that Boko Haram once nominated Buhari, his successor, to negotiate on their behalf with the federal government.
However, Jonathan’s media aide clarified that the former president’s remarks were meant to illustrate the deceptive tactics employed by Boko Haram in its early days.
Eze said the reports circulating in sections of the media, suggesting that Jonathan implicated Buhari in the Boko Haram crisis, were misleading.
“At no time did Dr. Jonathan suggest, imply, or insinuate that President Buhari had any connection with Boko Haram or that he supported the group in any form,” Eze added.
Jonathan’s comments were aimed at highlighting Boko Haram’s duplicity in invoking the names of respected public figures to sow confusion, exploit political divisions, and undermine public confidence in government.
Eze emphasised that both Jonathan and Buhari shared a common commitment to restoring peace and stability to Nigeria during their respective tenures.
Jonathan’s media aide maintained that the former president’s comments were not meant to accuse Buhari or imply any wrongdoing on his part.
Jonathan has urged Nigerians to disregard any misinterpretation of his remarks, reiterating his commitment to peace, unity, and the strengthening of democratic values in Nigeria.
Former presidential spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu, refuted Jonathan’s claim, describing it as “false and politically motivated.”