By Austin Ogwuda
FORMER President Goodluck Jonathan says the fatherly role played by the late Chairman of DAAR Communications (AIT), Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, who stood by him all through when he lost the 2015 Presidential elections to immediate past President Mohammed Buhari was the masterstroke that calmed his nerves.
He disclosed this while speaking at the 1st Raymond Dokpesi Annual Diamond Lecture organised by the management of DAAR Communications, in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in Abuja on Friday.
Said he, “It is not easy to lose an election as a sitting President. You will think the whole world is against you.
But then, Dokpesi invited me before I handed over. I remember what he said to me when I lost the election.
“There were so many Senior Nigerians (Elder Statesmen) who spoke. After I listened to all the conversations, he (Dokpesi) congratulated me and encouraged me to look beyond the election.
This is how I commemorated that session.
“That communication gave me hope and helped me, not necessarily for the transition hour ahead of me, but also in my spiritual life as a private citizen.
“If you read my book, ‘My Transition Hours’, I explained it more elaborately what I went through”, he stated.
Former First Lady pays visit to Senator Nwoko
In another development, the former First Lady of Nigeria, Patience Jonathan, on Thursday paid a friendly visit to Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, one of the most prominent figures in the 10th National Assembly.
The visit took place at Senator Ned Nwoko’s Maitama residence in Abuja and provided an opportunity for relaxed yet meaningful discussions.
Senator Ned Nwoko, the Distinguished Lawmaker representing Delta North senatorial district, was joined by his wife, Regina Daniels-Nwoko, the popular and renowned Nollywood actress.
Regina was quick to express her respect and admiration for the former First Lady.
Her warmth and humility were on full display as she welcomed the woman who left a strong mark on Nigeria’s political scene during her husband’s time in office.
The visit, which lasted for an extended period, gave Senator Nwoko and Mrs. Jonathan ample opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, touching on key national issues.
The discussions were said to have covered the Senator’s legislative work in the National Assembly, his efforts on behalf of the good people of Anioma and their shared thoughts on current matters facing the country.
The visit not only showcased the friendly rapport between the former First Lady and Senator Ned Nwoko but also offered a moment of reflection on issues that are shaping the country’s present and future.,