Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has described the travails of ex-Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, in the aftermath of the controversial OPL 245 oil deal as a “global manhunt,” praising the former justice minister for his courage in telling his side of the story.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the public presentation of Adoke’s memoir, OPL 245: Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Nigerian Oil Block, Jonathan, who was represented by former Senate President, Pius Anyim, said the book was not only a personal vindication but a testament to the power of truth and resilience.
Jonathan stated, “The author of this memoir, Mr. Bello Adoke, was the attorney-general of the federation at that time. He was hunted across the globe. But today, he’s alive, he’s healthy, he’s here to tell his story.”
The former president congratulated Adoke for his “doggedness” in surviving what he described as targeted political persecution by the administration that succeeded him.
He said, “Shortly after my tenure ended in 2015, the succeeding government launched what many people saw as a manhunt against key officers of my administration.
“To some people, this may be just a book launch. But to others, it represents a celebration of victory over persecution.”
Jonathan used the occasion to restate his long-standing belief that no society can thrive without justice, fairness, and respect for due process.
“It is acknowledged among all civilisations that any society or organisation that does not promote justice and fairness will neither have peace nor make progress,” he said.
He noted that Adoke’s memoir was not written to attack anyone but to set the record straight and serve as a contribution to nation-building.
“The essence of the author’s effort in documenting his memoir is not only to put the record straight, but to contribute to the cause of truth and justice as the foremost pillars of nation-building,” he said.
Jonathan also reminded public office holders of the transient nature of power, urging them to embrace integrity and purpose during their time in office.
He added, “Let us be reminded that power belongs to God. The best anyone who is blessed with the opportunity of holding public office should do is to commit to the assignment and use the opportunity to uphold truth, justice, and fairness.”
The former president rounded off his remarks with a note of personal pride in Adoke’s courage and determination to tell his side of the controversial OPL 245 saga.