President Jonathan speaks for the first time on Why he Conceded Defeat in 2015 Presidential Elections

 

Nigeria’s President, Goodluck Jonathan has for the first time spoken, yesterday, on why he conceded defeat to the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Major-General Muhammadu Buhari (retd), in the March 28 presidential election, saying he did so to avert a collective tragedy.

The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Denis Guaer, who commended him for setting a record of humility, patriotism and courage in safeguarding the democratic process in Nigeria and Africa for which he will always be remembered.

He said: “Nigeria is not only an economic power in the world today, but also a great democratic example. And it is all by your effort, Mr. President. The last elections and your response was truly a great achievement and you will always be remembered for it.”
In his response, President Jonathan said: “Since I assumed duty, I have been involved in quelling political crises in some African countries and I know what they passed through and what some are still going through. If you scuttle a system for personal ambition, it becomes a collective tragedy.
“You need to have a nation before you can have an ambition. It should always be the nation first. You don’t have to scuttle national progress for personal ambition. Democracy has to be nurtured to grow. Strong democratic institutions are the backbone and future of our democracy. They must be protected and nurtured. As for me, as a matter of principle, it is always the nation first.”