‘Jonathan, Most Important Political Figure In Africa’

A former Special Adviser to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on Inter-Party Affairs, Senator Ben Obi has described his former boss as the most important political figure in Africa for conceding defeat in the March 28 presidential election.

Obi, made the remark at a civic reception organised in his honour in Awka last Sunday night.

The Awka Development Union of Nigeria (ADUN) organised the reception following Obi’s successful tenure as Special Adviser to the former President for four years.

According to him, Jonathan’s singular act of conceding defeat and bringing to bear peace in the country has made him the most important political figure in Africa.

He expressed confidence that the world which recognised the gesture, would soon accord the former president the recognition in due course.

The former special adviser also thanked Jonathan for giving him the opportunity to serve the country, in spite of the numerous political battles fought against him.

“This is a man that I went to battle against from 2007, 2010 and 2011, yet he was considerate and accommodating enough to appoint me as his special adviser with the national honours of Commander of the Niger (CON).”

He thanked the union and the Awka community for honouring him, assuring them that he would not change his political stand but would remain constant and consistent.

Obi also commended Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State for appointing two indigenes of Awka as commissioners and gave an assurance that the community would support his administration to succeed.

Earlier in a remark, the Deputy Governor, Dr Nkem Okeke, described Obi as a man of humility and impeccable character, who showed exemplary leadership qualities.

Okeke noted that Obi had carved a niche for himself in politics and should be called upon again to serve.

In a remark, the traditional ruler of Awka, Obi Gibson Nwosu, advised that the Igbo people should always endeavour to rally round Obi for political advice.

Some others who spoke were the Vice-Chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Prof. Joseph Ahaneku, the President-General of the union, Chief Anthony Okechukwu, and Dr Emma Egbogah, who chaired the occasion.

They all commended Obi for contributing toward the peaceful conduct of the last general elections, describing him as ”a colossus, honest and dedicated patriot.”