Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Senate President Ahmad Lawan have expressed optimism that the 2023 general elections, during which President Muhammadu Buhari’s successor will emerge, will be rancor-free.
The two spoke on Friday at the wedding reception of the daughter of Bauchi State Governor Sen. Bala Muhammad, Hauwa Bala Muhammad and her groom, Muhammad Lawan, at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.
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Jonathan, who chaired the gathering, first threw the tack of brotherhood and unity of Nigerians ahead of of the 2023 elections, by observing that despite their different political leanings and convictions many of those that attended the wedding are together at the occasion “and not fighting over ballot boxes.”
“It is a happy day for all as we celebrate our children,” the ex-President, who is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noted while appreciating the presence of the star-studded guests.
He said it was an important occasion that signifies the importance of marriage and its role in uniting many people, politics or otherwise.
He urged all Nigerians to pray for God’s blessings upon the couple.
Taking a cue from Jonathan, Lawan, a ranking member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed confidence that despite the usual political party rivalry that characterizes the conduct of elections in the country, “in 2023 there will be no fighting over ballot boxes because Nigerians are now wiser.”
“From here,” the rendezvous of the lavish soiree, “the sense of togetherness exhibited should continue to guide Nigerians and its leaders,” he offered.
He thanked God and congratulated the couple, further praying that they get the best that marriage can offer, just as he reminded them that much is now expected from them.
Dignitaries at the event also included former Senate Presidents Adolphus Wabara and Anyim Prius Anyim; Governors Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto state, Godwin Obaseki of Edo state; and, Sen. Duoye Diri, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum together with Seyi Makinde of Bayelsa, Borno and Oyo states respectively.
Other dignitaries include some Deputy Governors, PDP NWC/ BOT members led by the Chairman of PDP Uche Secondus and Sen. Walid Jibril of the BOT respectively. Senators and members of the House of Representatives, serving and former. State legislators were also in attendance.
