There have been some controversy on whether Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GEJ) should run for  the office of the President in 2011. There have also been rumours that he is about to take a decision on whether to run or not. This piece has articulated 12 reasons why Nigerians should compel GEJ to contest.

Reason 1

There is work to be done to move the nation forward. GEJ has started laying the foundation and should be encouraged to aspire to complete them. Those projects or visions should not be abandoned.

Reason 2

GEJ is the incumbent President albeit an inheritance of his joint ticket with Late President Yar Adua. He deserves the right to aspire to complete the second term of the joint mandate.

Reason 3

The Ruling PDP has effectively cleared the way for him to contest the presidential primaries, hence he should not back out.


Reason 4

Time is too short to assess and groom an outsider for the important position of presidency. The election is expected to hold early next year (most likely January 2011) hence too short for an unprepared candidate to assume the mantle of leadership only to lead us through another round of rigmarole. GEJ has already started implementing a vision.

Reason 5

The international community has endorsed his presidency notably USA, Ecowas, etc. We recall how he was warmly embraced by President Barak Obama. He has quickly resolved the underwear bomber incidence and returned dignity to Nigeria and her citizens.

Reason 6

Countries of great means are courting him, making it easier for him to attract the much needed foreign investment into the country.

Reason 7

He is qualified to run, having met all the requirements for the presidency under the Nigerian law. He does not seem to carry any baggage or skeleton in his cupboard.

Reason 8

A decision by GEJ not to run will not prove anything and does not showcase him as a statesman.  On the contrary such a decision will affect the psyche of the Niger Deltans and indeed all well meaning Nigerians. Hence, he should not waste the opportunity to contest. Nigeria will not disintegrate if he contests.


Reason 9

Nigeria will benefit greatly from his presidency if he wins. For instance, there will be continuity for his three point focus area (credible polls, power and Niger Delta reforms)
These are crucial for the nation's development and should not be abandoned.

Reason 10

His running for the presidency will provide Nigeria with an opportunity to entrench the culture and belief that anybody (Nigerian) irrespective of tribe and affiliation can aspire and actually become the president of Nigeria. This will enhance unity, patriotism and encourage the younger generation to believe more in the Nigerian state.

Reason 11

GEJ is level headed and does not seem to have undue attachment to any godfathers or cabal, hence no hindrances for him to provide the much needed good governance
His performance so far in office gives a clear indication of the direction of his government. The roadmap is also clear.

Reason 12

His running is consistent with the constitution of Nigeria and does not contravene PDP's zoning arrangement and national balance. The PDP recognises the right of an incumbent to seek re-election. By running, GEJ will be seeking the mandate of the nation to complete the Yar Adua/Jonathan dispensation.


Let Nigerians encourage Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to run for the Presidency, to provide a real opportunity for Nigerians to elect their president in 2011.
   
Every change begins with a vision and a decision to take action. GEJ should take action now!