President Goodluck Jonathan has eulogised former military Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Alhaji Abubakar, describing him as a champion of democracy, lover, builder, friend, a patriot, statesman and a bridge builder.
Jonathan was speaking on Wednesday in Abuja at a book presentation of the times and legacy of the former head of state titled: “The Liberal and Evolution to Stable Democracy in Nigeria.”
The president, who was represented by the Vice President Namadi Sambo at the occasion, noted that the former Head of State against all odds successfully returned Nigeria to democracy in 1999.
?“On assumption of office Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar did not only restore confidence in our body polity but helped in rejuvenating political activities which served as a catalyst to foster consensus building among stakeholders in the Nigerian project thereby placing Nigeria in its enviable position in the comity of democratic nations.
“His conduct of the 1999 elections helped to usher in a democratic process which is gradually maturing by the day.
“He, amongst others, allowed the independence of the electoral umpire, created an enabling environment for political parties to evolve through genuine participation, rebust political belief and principles.
“This feat really placed the cynics at their proper place who postulated that no successful transition could ever be achieved in Nigeria.”
Jonathan eulogised the book, stating that it chronicles the country’s journey to democracy.
“I find it a rich archival and reference material for those seeking knowledge in Nigeria’s democratic journey so far.”
In their separate remarks, former President Shehu Shagari and former Military President Ibrahim Babangida, both eulogised the qualities of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar,
They described him as a great Nigerian, whose name would always be embedded in Nigeria’s history.
In his remark, retired Gen. Abubakar, identified indiscipline and insecurity as the main problems threatening Nigeria as a nation.
?He, however, stated that no force could ever break Nigeria as a geo-political entity.
?He urged Nigerians to support government to tackle all challenges, saying Nigerians should focus on what unites them and not what divides them.
?The former head of state also used the occasion to thank Nigerians for the support they gave him in steering the country to democracy.
?The Author of the book, Mallam Abdullahi Modibbo Umar, stated that the patriotic zeal of Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, spurred him to write the book.
He appealed to Nigerians to emulate the sterling qualities of the former Head of State.
?Highligtt of the event was a paper presentation entitled “Democracy and Contemporary Challenges in Nigeria: Which Way Forward” by Barrister Solomon Dalung of the University of Jos.
?The 7-chapter book, was reviewed by Dr. Muhammad Tahir Mallam of the University of Sokoto.
?The event attracted dignitaries including Gov. Patrick Ibrahim Yakowa of Kaduna State, former first lady, Justice Fatima Abubakar, Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, the emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Farouk Bahago and several other traditional rulers across the country.
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