President Jonathan Charges PDP to Avoid Politics of Destruction

Strategic Insights -

As Nigeria prepares for its fifth post-military rule general elections, President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain committed to democracy, fair play, and the rule of law. Jonathan cautioned against being pulled into a "politics of destruction" by the opposition, instead calling on the party to focus on issues-based and civilised campaigns. Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Major-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, has threatened to jail corrupt individuals if elected and has pledged to tackle the country's security and economic challenges.

Key Takeaways:

  • President Jonathan has warned the PDP against being involved in a "politics of destruction" and urged the party to adopt an issues-based campaign.
  • The PDP national chairman, Ahmadu Adamu Muazu, has cautioned the party against the "politics of use and dump," citing concerns over alleged injustices that led to the loss of party members to other parties.
  • Major-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, the APC candidate, has threatened to jail corrupt individuals if elected and has pledged to tackle security and economic challenges in the country.
  • Buhari has accused the PDP-led government of neglecting the insurgency in the country and has called on Nigerians to vote for change.
  • The APC candidate has promised to create jobs, improve power generation, and provide infrastructure across the country if elected.

Statistics:

  • Nigeria's economy has grown significantly under the PDP-led government, becoming the largest and strongest in Africa and a preferred destination for foreign direct investment.
  • The agricultural sector has been re-established as a major driver of economic growth, with a reduction in the country's food import bill and significant growth in the non-oil sector.
  • Over 50% of Nigeria's population now has access to education, with federal universities established across the country.
  • Power generation has improved, with trains running again on several routes across the country.
  • The PDP has privatised the power sector, with the process being adjudged as transparent and credible by international investors.

Sources:

  • The Guardian/All Africa Global Media (January 7, 2015)
  • AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com)