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Obama greets Jonathan,tasks leaders on democratic model
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President Barack Obama yesterday congratulated President Goodluck Jonathan on his victory at the presidential polls and indeed all Nigerians on the recent general elections. In a statement last night, Obama particularly praised the citizens for their patience and resolve to enhance democracy, through standing on long queues and waiting for the counting of their votes, which he alluded to their fervent desire to ensuring credible government. While acknowledging that balloting was free of intimidation and coercion, the US President deplored the violence that followed the April 16 , 2011 presidential election. “Violence has no place in a democratic society,” he said, and enjoined all Nigerians to reject it. Obama wants all Nigerian leaders and people to unite and build a laudable future and a model for Africa. The statement reads in full: “This morning, I called President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria to congratulate him on his election victory and to commend the people of Nigeria for their resolve and patience during last month’s historic presidential, legislative and gubernatorial elections.  The success of the elections was a testament to Nigerian voters who waited in long lines, stayed to watch their votes counted and were determined that these elections mark a new chapter in Nigerian history.  Credit also belongs to the Independent National Electoral Commission, the National Youth Service Corps, and Nigeria’s vibrant civil society, all of which must play a role in ensuring that the final results reflect the will of the Nigerian people and that Nigerian authorities investigate and address any allegations of fraud or irregularities. “While the majority of Nigerians cast their ballots free from intimidation and co