A diaspora-based political group, Goodluckans 2027 Diaspora Leadership Council, has defended former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan following recent comments made against him by social media personality VeryDarkMan.

In a statement issued Friday in Abuja, the group described Mr Jonathan as one of Nigeria's most respected democratic leaders and urged VeryDarkMan to withdraw his remarks against the former president.

The statement, signed by the coordinator of the group, Eliana Melekwe, said members of the organisation were disappointed by the comments and insisted that Mr Jonathan's contributions to Nigeria's democracy remain significant.

The group described itself as a global movement of Nigerians in the diaspora, including professionals such as doctors, nurses, lawyers, entrepreneurs and academics, committed to Nigeria's peace and development.

According to the statement, the movement is driven by patriotism and concern for Nigeria's future rather than social media influence or financial interests.

"Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan remains one of the most respected democratic leaders Nigeria has produced," the statement said.

The group also praised Mr Jonathan's leadership style, describing it as one rooted in humility, tolerance and commitment to democratic ideals.

It referenced Mr Jonathan's widely quoted statement during the 2015 presidential election that "my political ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian," noting that his decision to concede defeat helped preserve Nigeria's democratic stability.

"At a critical time in Nigeria's democratic history, President Jonathan peacefully conceded power in order to preserve democracy, national peace and constitutional order," the statement added.

The council further stated that the former president's conduct after leaving office had continued to earn him respect both within and outside Nigeria.

According to the group, many Nigerians still associate Mr Jonathan's administration with democratic freedom, relative economic stability and national unity.

The organisation said public figures and influencers should exercise caution and responsibility when making statements about national leaders.

"Public influence must be exercised responsibly, fairly and truthfully, especially when addressing national figures whose records and sacrifices are well documented in Nigeria's democratic history," the statement said.

The group added that it remained committed to promoting democracy, accountability, peace and national unity.