Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has reflected on his years in opposition politics, stating that challenging the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan significantly shaped his public career and strengthened his commitment to democratic governance.
Speaking during a public forum, Lai Mohammed explained that the period marked one of the most defining phases of his political journey. He noted that constant engagement with national issues, policy debates, and governance concerns under the Jonathan administration helped refine his skills in public communication and advocacy.
“Those years were tough but transformative,” he said. “Challenging the policies and actions of the Jonathan government demanded courage, clarity, and consistency. It sharpened my understanding of governance and strengthened my resolve to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s democratic development.”
He emphasized that opposition roles, when responsibly carried out, play a vital part in deepening democracy, holding leaders accountable, and giving voice to citizens’ concerns. According to him, democratic institutions grow stronger when leaders and political actors freely engage in constructive criticism and policy scrutiny.
Lai Mohammed also reiterated that his work during the era was driven by patriotism and the desire to see better governance outcomes for the Nigerian people. He expressed gratitude for the experience, noting that it prepared him for national service when he later joined the Federal Executive Council.
He called on current and future political actors to embrace issue-based engagement, respect democratic principles, and work towards building a more accountable and united Nigeria.