Jonathan to Nigerians: Elect leaders who’ll lead well in 2023

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerians to elect credible leaders in the 2023 general election to ensure good democratic governance in the country.

Jonathan gave the admonition while speaking to newsmen in Minna, the Niger State capital on Thursday shortly after visiting former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (Rtd.) at his residence.

He said it was only by electing the right leaders that the desired objectives of having responsible leaders to manage the country’s resources would be a reality.

Jonathan said Nigerians should think wisely and elect someone who would be ready to serve them well  in 2023.

He said that the Nigerians needed to choose someone who would serve them well and would not compromise the interests of the country for his benefit.

Jonathan said: “We all wish our country well. To every Nigerian, especially the young ones, elections are coming.

“They have to elect the person they believe would lead us well, the person who will serve us well.

“A leader is also a servant and as a President, you are to lead and you are to serve.

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“Elect somebody that will take the interest of all of us, the interest of the country, somebody that would not compromise our own interest for his own aggrandisement.

”Someone that would carry all of us along, most especially someone that would take Nigeria as a project.”

Jonathan further stated that the visit to Abdulsalam was a yearly ritual, saying it was not special.

The former President added that Nigeria still needs Abdulsalami for “the part he plays in maintaining peace and unity in the country”.

He added: “It has been over a year since I visited the state. As the youngest former President, I go around from time to time to visit them.

“I haven’t seen him for quite some time and you know he just came back from medical treatment abroad.

“So, it is proper for me to come with some of my friends to pay a courtesy call and greet him.

“We also made a stop at retired Gen. Babangida’s house to see him. It is a regular visit we always do.”

On Abdulsalami, former President Jonathan said: “Because we need him, especially now that we are talking about the 2023 elections.

“You know he chairs the National Peace Committee that tries to midwife peace process during elections, this is the time he is much needed.

“I know there will be so much pressure on him now to see what he can do so that the 2023 elections can be conducted freely and fairly and in an environment where there is peace and love,” he said.

The Star