Jonathan admits errors in governance

NIGERIA’S current myriad of challenges, ranging from corruption and greed, under-development and nepotism, terrorism and blood-letting to political mischief and maladministration, among others, shall be overcome someday, President Goodluck Jonathan has assured citizens.

   Though he acknowledged that as humans, members of his government might have committed some errors in the cause of governing the nation, he stressed his administration’s commitment to do what is right.
   Speaking on Sunday at the Winners Chapel, Goshen City in Nasarawa State, where he worshipped alongside members of his cabinet and other presidential aides, Jonathan said he “would only do things that he would be able to defend before God.”

   He maintained that all his decisions are based on the need to do what is right and in the interest of the country. Alluding to the Super Eagles’ resilience that saw them come from three goals down to eventually defeat Morocco at the quarter-finals of the African Nations Championship at the weekend, he noted that Nigeria faces challenges like every other nation, but would surely overcome.

   Restating his calls for prayers from all citizens, Jonathan said: “I assure you (that) this country will cross the bridge. Yes, we have challenges as a nation, even the most developed nations pass through stages sometimes even more challenging than we face today, but what happened yesterday in South Africa will be the story of this nation.

   “Those of you who watched that match will know that it was not easy at the beginning, it was as if Nigeria was to be demolished, but all of a sudden the young men came very strong and we won. That is how it will be with the story of this country. With your prayers and commitment, we will get to the destination.

   “The Promised Land has never been an easy one for any nation, it was not easy for the Israelites and I promise that myself and my colleagues will continue to do what is right for this country. The bishop said it all that as mere mortals, there may be errors, but our commitment to do what is right is total.

   “We will do our best, but like I always say, whatever I do, I should be able to tell God why I did it. All what we require is your prayers and Nigeria will get to its destination.”

   Earlier, Bishop David Abioye of Winners Chapel had observed that when leaders make wrong decisions, the whole nation is affected, therefore, he prayed for the leaders against wrong decisions.

   Meanwhile, he commended Jonathan’s recent signing into law of the Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Bill 2013, saying it was an example for other African leaders.

   According to him, “a decision in defence of the church, a decision on the morality of the nation, a decision that protects the culture of the black race, which I also believe is pace-setting to other nations of Africa – that is the decision against same-sex marriage.

   “It is against ethics, it is against tradition, it is against humanity, it is against the will of God, it is against everything. The Bible says (that) righteousness exalts a nation, not human or international relations, not diplomacy.”

   He added: “Our leaders are humans, they are not angels, it is prayer that makes them to abide by the will of God. As we keep praying, God keeps guiding them; when we pray, they gravitate towards what is good. That is why the church must keep praying.”

- The Guardian

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