by Laila Ibrahim

President Goodluck Jonathan says he usually gets embarrassed by the provocative statements and inciting utterances made by some Nigerian politicians, capable of heating up the polity.

The President was speaking at a special Christmas service at St. Matthew’s Anglican Church in Maitama, Abuja, earlier today.

According to him, rather than resort to provocative statements that are capable of heating up the polity, politicians and those who seek leadership positions in the country should be more concerned with issues.

He said: “As a politician, you want people to elect you to perform your responsibilities. If you mean well for the country, you wouldn’t be fanning the embers of discord and hatred.”

“Nigeria is nobody’s personal estate, but you want to serve. If the people want you to serve, you serve. But if they say no, then leave. So, I get embarrassed when we the politicians make provocative statements – statements that create division among Nigerians and that can set this country ablaze.”

“I don’t think that is what a leader should do; it is not the kind of seed a leader should sow. Those who take government by violence hardly end well, examples abound in some of these other African countries.”

“So, if a politician is interested in power at any level, you don’t sow seed of discord and enmity because it will consume you if you try to,” Jonathan added

Jonathan also thanked religious leaders and other Nigerians for their continued prayers for peace and unity in the country, noting that if not for the intercession of these people, the country would have had more challenges .

He said all the country is going through is temporary as God has a special interest in Nigeria.

Kolapo Olapoju