Hon. Chief Ibu Mizodome, Technical Adviser to the Governor of Bayelsa State on General Duties and former Chairman of Ogbia Local Government Area, has expressed strong anticipation for the 2026 Democracy Dialogue of the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Foundation.
The fifth edition of the Foundation’s flagship annual conversation is scheduled for *Tuesday, 11th August 2026*, at the International Conference Centre in Bauchi State. Mizodome described the gathering as a timely and consequential meeting of African minds.
He applauded the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Foundation and its founder, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, for sustaining the platform. He noted Jonathan’s consistent commitment to democratic discourse, peace, and good governance across the continent.
According to Mizodome, the theme, *“Beyond Elections: Can Political Parties and the Judiciary Save African Democracy?”* is both courageous and necessary at a time when many African citizens question whether their votes truly count after the ballots are cast. He said focusing on strengthening political parties and an independent judiciary addresses the core of democratic deficits on the continent.
Mizodome also highlighted the perfect timing of the event. With Nigeria and several other African countries approaching the 2027 general elections, he said the conversation is urgently needed due to declining public trust in institutions, recurring electoral disputes, and the growing tendency to resolve political contests in courtrooms rather than at the polls.
He added that Bauchi is a fitting host, being the home state of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Nigeria’s first and only Prime Minister and one of the architects of the country’s independence. The event is being organised in collaboration with the Bauchi State Government under Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.
A distinguished cast of leaders is expected at the Dialogue. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo will chair the event. Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama will serve as Special Guest of Honour, while Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima will be Guest of Honour. Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Bala Mohammed will jointly host.
The Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Dr. Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, will serve as Royal Father of the Day. Other notable participants include former Supreme Court Justice Amina Augie, Ghana’s NDC National Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma, and Professor Karuti Kanyinga of the University of Nairobi, who will deliver the keynote address. A fireside chat involving experienced statesmen and jurists is also planned.
Mizodome emphasised that the event is more than another conference. It is a call to deepen the institutions that sustain democracy long after elections are over. He expressed hope that the Dialogue will contribute meaningfully to strengthening democratic culture across Africa.
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