National confab not diversionary – Jonathan

PRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, hit back at critics of his decision to hold a National Conference. His critics said the National conference is diversionary and a waste of time. But in a message to Muslims on this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration, President Jonathan while urging Islamic faithful to offer special prayers for peace, harmony, unity, security and progress in the country said the proposed dialogue will rather promote and enhance national peace, stability and progress. It is in keeping with that avowed commitment and my firm belief in the right to freedom of expression and the right of all people in a democracy to make choices on how they wish to live and be governed that I recently announced plans for an orderly national conversation on our problems and challenges. “Those who continue to say that the initiative is diversionary or aimed at promoting certain political ambitions are in error. Our sincere objective is to create an acceptable and workable platform for a national dialogue or conference that will help us to resolve the issues that still cause tension and friction in the polity, reinforce the ties that bind the country’s many ethnic nationalities and ensure that Nigeria’s immense diversity continues to be a source of strength and greatness. “Our desire is for the greatest possible majority of Nigerians to key into the process and agree on the best way forward for our dear nation. We have been greatly encouraged in this regard by the very positive reaction of various national interest groups to the initiative and I seize the opportunity of this occasion to urge all other Nigerians to give their fullest possible support to this renewed effort to harness the efficacy of dialogue and consensus-building for the future well-being and progress of our beloved nation. “I assure all Nigerians that going forward, my administration will continue to give very focused and purposeful leadership to the nation. We remain committed to achieving significant improvements in the living conditions of all Nigerians through the diligent implementation of our agenda for national transformation. We will also remain very proactive in taking all actions deemed necessary for the restoration and sustenance of peace and security in all parts of our country.”