Nigeria: Jonathan Will Script a New Country

Leadership

28 April 2011

Nigeria: Jonathan Will Script a New Country

interview

Senior Special Assistant to President Goodluck Jonathan on Research, Documentation and Strategy, Mr. Oronto Douglas, in this interview with journalists in Abuja, gives some insight into the president's governance style and his priorities. Iyobosa Uwugiaren was there. Excerpts

How would you react to the post-presidential election violence that swept the north?

The President-elect, Dr. Jonathan, comes from a part of the country that has consistently voted for national unity and togetherness. His brand of politics is one without rancour or bitterness. His public and private life speaks of and demonstrates peaceful co-existence. He is not an exclusionist and it is unfortunate that violence would erupt from a part of the country to sour the sweet of our democracy. This is the time to heal, not to kill. It is time for Nigerians to intensify the building of our country brick by brick as supported by the strong mortar of one Nigeria.

It appears that the violence has taken the shine off the president's victory. His opponents have also raised questions about the fairness of the election...

Did you say "his victory"? No, no, no! This is not a victory for Dr. Jonathan. It is a victory for Nigeria and Nigerians. It will be a monumental mistake to interpret the result of the presidential election as a victory for President Jonathan. President Jonathan is a pen in God's hand which He, the Almighty, is using to bring justice to all Nigerians whether we are from the north, south, east or west. The violence, therefore, cannot dent Nigerians' victory at the polls.