'We have Given Jonathan Mandate To Run For President' – Gov Timipre Sylva

San Francisco, May 29, (THEWILL) – "I would like to give voice to the raging question of the president, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan's return to office in 2011. As a state, we have given him the mandate to go ahead and run, even though, he has not declared interest in the presidential race yet." – Governor Timipre Sylva

The Bayelsa State Governor in a Democracy Day message to Niger Deltans today said President Jonathan would impact positively on Nigerians and Nigeria if he wins the 2011 presidential election.

Both Sylva and Jonathan are from Bayelsa State and seem to have resolved their differences which came to limelight during the illness and absence of former president Umaru Yar’Adua.

Though President Goodluck Jonathan is yet to declare his intention to contest the 2011 election, feelers from his supporters indicate he will contest.

Assuring the President of his support, Sylva said, "We give the President the full support to deliver on quality leadership for Nigeria. As Acting President, he did very well and we are confident that he will continue to do well at the helm of affairs of our country.

"I believe it is only fair and just for Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, whom God in His infinite mercy, has propelled thus far, to take the seat of President in 2011. At the moment, he is only completing Yar'Adua's tenure."