Goodluck Jonathan Weeps As PDP Godfather Blows Hot, 'Dumps' Party For Good

It  was a mixed reaction on Saturday evening, as former President, Goodluck Jonathan, pleaded with the former Chairman, Board of Trustees, BoT, of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Tony Anenih, popularly called Mr Fix It, not to quit partisan politics, or resign from the party.

This emotional plea, came against the backdrop of Anenih’s announcement that he is retiring from active politics, on Saturday, at the presentation of his autobiography, “My Life and Nigerian Politics.”

“I am persuaded that I have no more ambition, nor any point to prove in politics. I am therefore, glad to declare that from today, I shall be withdrawing from active partisan politics.

“I shall however, continue to avail the country of my experience, give suggestions, and offer advice, as a statesman,” Anenih told his audience.

Jonathan, who was among the distinguished personalities that attended the book presentation, appealed to the elder statesman, not to carry out his threat.

“You may not be in position to attend political meetings, but you are our political leader, until God decides that you will leave us.

“The country is passing through political stages, (and) your experience and wisdom will be required to direct us, and stabilize the nation.

“We will excuse you from attending night meetings, BoT meetings, but you will continue to mentor us, we will continue to consult you,” Jonathan pleaded.

The former President, who admitted that he has not attended any PDP meeting since he left office, however declared, “I am still a member of PDP, and will continue to be in PDP.”

The former BoT Chairman, who expressed gratitude to God for strength, inspiration, and protection, said he decided to write the book, to provide lessons, and encouragement to future generations.

“I am hopeful that the lessons of fortitude, hard work, diligence, loyalty, and service, which have been manifest in my life, would give encouragement to all those who are serving, as well as those who aspire to serve our great fatherland.

“My cardinal focus and objective, have always been to be an agent of positive development, unity, and brotherhood in Nigeria.

“In the course of my political career, I have interacted with all manner of people, and institutions. I have seen people at their best, and at their worst; I have worked with reliable people, as well as fickle people; I have experienced undiluted loyalty, and disloyalty from unexpected places. I have always tried to make the best of all situations.

“I can therefore, say with great pride, that I feel fulfilled in politics,” he declared.

Other distinguished personalities that graced the occasion were: former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), who chaired the event; two former Vice Presidents, Dr. Alex Ekwueme; and Arc. Namadi Sambo.