Jonathan Hails Prime Minister Of Benin For Emulating Him

BEVERLY HILLS, March 23, (THEWILL) – Nigeria’s immediate past President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has lauded the Prime Minister of Benin Republic, Lionel Zinsou for emulating him by peacefully conceding the presidential election held in that country.

“I especially wish to appreciate the incumbent Prime Minister of the Republic of Benin, Mr. Lionel Zinsou, who was a candidate for President, for his exemplary conduct of conceding defeat and congratulating the choice of the people, Mr. Patrice Talon, on his victory at the polls.

“Such a gesture by Prime Minister Zinsou is rare and should be applauded by all statesmen as the highest display of patriotism and maturity,” he stated.

It would be recalled that Jonathan had after the March 28, 2015 presidential election historically conceded to Muhammadu Buhari, receiving numerous international commendations for the action believed to have averted potential bloodshed.

Stressing that he monitored the election and was glad to see the orderly manner in which the people conducted themselves, Jonathan said Zinsou acted with “patriotism and maturity”.

His statement further read, “Having followed the elections in the Republic of Benin very closely, I am very impressed with the orderly manner with which the administration of President Boni Yayi conducted those polls.

“They were adjudged peaceful, credible and transparent by local and international observers and President Yayi deserves commendation for providing the leadership that led to this outcome.

“I also congratulate the people of the Republic of Benin for their role in the election and for showing the world that the Republic of Benin and its citizens have come of age in the practice of democracy.”

“Finally, I congratulate Mr. Patrice Talon on his victory and wish him a successful and peaceful tenure after his swearing-in, even as I urge that there should be no victor or vanquished in this process.

“All the Beninoise people are winners and have cause to be proud of their nation.”