The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, says former President Goodluck Jonathan is “father of modern democracy in Nigeria”.
He said this in a 65th birthday tribute to Jonathan which he personally signed and shared on his verified Facebook page on Sunday.
Jonathan, who was the incumbent president, has been hailed globally for conceding to Muhammadu Buhari before the final outcome of the 2015 presidential election became known.
According to some commentators, that singular act ensured Nigeria did not experience predicted post-election violence.
“Hurrah, Our Leader, Dr. Jonathan is 65!
“Happy birthday, our dear leader and father of modern democracy in Nigeria, Former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR.
“You remain an inspiration to us as Bayelsans and Ijaws, and we are always proud of you and the achievements you recorded while you were president of our great country.
“On behalf of the government and people of Bayelsa State, I want to wish you a happy birthday and pray for God to give you the strength and courage to continue to serve humanity,” Diri wrote.