The Catholic Bishops Conference on Thursday visited President Goodluck Jonathan at the State House and assured him that they would remain his allies in his future endeavors.
The delegation, led by Chairman of the conference, Bishop Ignatius Kaigama of Jos Diocese, included John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Archbishop of Abuja, and Archbishop Anthony Obinna of Owerri.
Kaigama said the bishops came to show their appreciation “for what you have done not only for Nigeria but Africa and the world.
“We want to assure you that we will remain committed to your good cause especially as it concerns this country.
“Wherever you find yourself, see us as your dependable allies; we will tell you the truth; we will not tell you lies; we will not flatter you unnecessarily.’’
The bishop told the President that they were ready to tell him what would help him and prayed that God will always be with him.
Kaigama said the President’s action and show of statesmanship when he conceded defeat and congratulated the victor after the election “is what has come to define the election.
“We are indeed very proud of your decision to uphold the truth of the gospel by keeping to the promise you had made to Nigerians to the effect that your personal ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.
“In doing this, you have fulfilled the scriptures because the truth has set our country free from the bondage of the clouds that threatened to engulf us.
“By this action, you have not only redefined honesty in politics, you have laid a foundation that promised to change the way that politics is played in our country.
“Nigerian politics will never be the same again,” he said.
He expressed the hope that Jonathan’s example would place the nation on an irreversible road to development and growth.
He also said that Jonathan would remain a source of inspiration to young Africans seeking to play roles in politics.
Jonathan thanked the bishops for the visit and promise, adding that he acted in the interest of the country and future leaders.
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