Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has firmly stated that he owes no one apologies for his support in the re-election of Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, during the November 11, 2023 off-cycle governorship election in the state.
Jonathan emphasized that supporting Governor Diri for a second term was the right decision, considering the substantial backing he enjoyed from the majority of the people.
The former President expressed this viewpoint during a visit by Governor Diri to his residence in Yenagoa, the state capital, on Wednesday. Responding to Governor Diri’s appreciation for his support in the re-election bid, Jonathan underscored the legitimacy of backing a candidate who had widespread support from the populace.
Jonathan’s unwavering stance on supporting Governor Diri reflects his conviction in the democratic process and the importance of aligning with the will of the majority in determining leadership continuity.
“Yes, I did what I did during the elections and I have no apologies for anybody. I know that time when I came out very clearly some people said ‘no Mr President you should…’, I said no, there are some wars you have to go totally, there are some you should not but this one is total,” Jonathan said.
“I know why I did that, the governor is trying, most especially the issue of peace in the state. I was at a time very worried, I am not saying others have not done well, after all I was a governor here for one and half years, I also had my challenges but at least, at the time he came on board, the excesses especially in Yenegoa town here where all kind of stupid things were happening but it came down well.
“And I said that if we must move forward, if we must attract investors, first of all we must handle security and I think he has tried and it is good to allow him to do the remaining four years.”
Jonathan also charged the governor to do more to meet the high expectations of his supporters for the success of the state, adding that “to whom much is given, much is expected.”
The wife of the former president, Dame Patience Jonathan, was also on hand to receive the governor and his entourage.