Six months after, Obasanjo lauds Jonathan for successful handover to Buhari.....

By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor & Ikenna Asomba


Jonathan and Obasanjo

Almost six months after the change of government, former President Olusegun Obasanjo has for the first time congratulated former President Goodluck Jonathan for successfully handing over to President Muhammadu Buhari and commended him for continuing to have faith in Nigeria.

Obasanjo’s commendation was contained in his reply to President Jonathan’s earlier notification of his plans to establish a foundation following the end of his term in office as president.

Jonathan had in a letter dated September 22, 2015, formally notified Obasanjo of his intention to set up a foundation to promote good works.

In the letter which Jonathan started with “Dear Baba,” Jonathan had said:

“I will be devoting the rest of my life and energy to making the world a better place. I am currently finalizing efforts to set up The Goodluck Jonathan Foundation. More details on the work of the foundation will be available at the launch, which I believe should take place by the 3rd quarter of 2016.”

However, Obasanjo, in a response published by the online newspaper, Premium Times, wrote:

“Dear President Goodluck Jonathan,

I write to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of September 22, 2015. I take this opportunity to congratulate you on your successful handover to the current President of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari.

“I am happy to note that you had a good rest and time with your family during the break. I hope you also had time to reflect and see what lessons you have learned and what you can bequeath to others. All of us who have had experience in our service to the nation and to humanity must not put it under the bushel.

“I have to commend you and your Foundation, Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, for the faith you continue to have in Nigeria. Maybe, seeking how to be better and more serviceable to the nation and humanity is also a form of penitence and soul-searching to give conscience a relief and to show remorse.

“I wish you well as you continue to forge ahead with your activities in the coming months and years. If there is any area you feel I can be of help, you should not hesitate to call on me.”

Vanguard