The Northern Elders Council led by Mr Tanko Yakassai has commended President Goodluck Jonathan and his vice, Namadi Sambo, for their harmonious working relationship and effort in effectively managing the complex security and socio-economic challenges confronting the nation, expressing optimism that such efforts would be sustained if they continue in office beyond 2015.
The elders, while passing a vote of confidence on the Jonathan administration, also warned politicians and regional leaders to desist from making provocative statements that are capable of destabilising the peaceful co-existence of Nigeria and instead join hands with the federal government in the quest for sustainable peace and development.
Speaking at the Inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Elders Council under the chairmanship of a former Inspector General of Police, Gambo Jimeta in Kaduna on Thursday, Mr Yakassai restated President Jonathan’s is eligibility to seek for re-election in 2015, and stressed that every Nigerian, irrespective of tribe or religion has the constitutional right to aspire for any political office.
He also stated that the elders council is fully committed to the unity and peace of the country, fight against corruption and promotion of credible elections in 2015.
Kaduna State Governor, Mukhtar Yero, who was represented by his deputy, Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga, tasked the elders to assist the government in finding a lasting solution to the Boko Haram insurgency in the region. The governor told the elders that the North cannot grow like other regions when it remains backward in education.
