Jonathan Refutes Claims Linking Buhari to Boko Haram

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has denied reports claiming he accused the late former President Muhammadu Buhari of having any link to the Boko Haram insurgency.

The clarification followed media reports that misinterpreted his remarks during the book launch of former Chief of Defence Staff, Lucky Irabor. Jonathan’s office, through his spokesman Ikechukwu Eze, stated that the reports circulating in some sections of the media were misleading and false.

According to the statement, Jonathan did not at any point suggest or imply that Buhari had any involvement with Boko Haram. His comments, the statement explained, were part of a broader discussion on Nigeria’s security challenges and how the terrorist group had in the past falsely used the names of respected individuals to cause confusion and create political tension.

Jonathan said Boko Haram had often claimed that certain public figures, including Buhari, were chosen as mediators during their early years, without those individuals’ consent. He noted that the group used such tactics to manipulate public perception, deepen divisions, and weaken trust in government institutions.

The former president questioned the logic behind the claim, asking why the group continued its violent acts even after Buhari became president if indeed he was their chosen negotiator.Jonathan reaffirmed that both he and Buhari shared a common goal of defeating terrorism and restoring peace across Nigeria.

He also noted that Buhari, like many others, was once a target of Boko Haram attacks.Jonathan urged Nigerians to disregard any misrepresentation of his words, saying he remains committed to promoting peace, unity, and democratic growth in the country.

He added that national progress can only be achieved through truth and not through distorted narratives.