Jonathan is a rare gem, says IBB

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has reacted to the victory of Gen. Mohammadu Buhari describing it as a triumph for doggedness and perseverance, which the president-elect exhibited in his political career.

The former military leader, who spoke with Journalists in Minna yesterday, said Buhari contested for the office of the president thrice without success but did not give up.

“I think, it is a triumph for democracy, triumph for doggedness, perseverance and a belief in a course, which the general has exhibited all along.”

“He contested this election three, four times, but he never gave up. He continues to have faith and belief that he has something to offer to this country; and God, in His infinite wisdom, has made that belief to happen. So I think it is a credit for democracy.”

IBB, however, commended the statesmanship exhibited by the president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, in conceding defeat and personally calling to congratulate General Buhari. Babangida added that, with this singular act, President Jonathan had written his name as the first African leader to concede to a defeat outrightly.

“I want to commend Goodluck Jonathan for the most able way he handle the situation. It shows he was magnanimous; I must say he must be a posture of a good leader that I know for calling his opponent to congratulate him, even before the actual announcement of the final result. It had never happened. This is the triumph for democracy, triumph for common sense and triumph for politics.”

He pointed out that he has no doubt over the ability of the new president in taking the country to lofty heights, adding that General Buhari was a well experienced person, having once served in similar capacity.