Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerians not to despair in the face of persecution as nothing evil lasts forever.
However, he said that it was better to be persecuted for doing the right thing than being associated with despicable conduct.
The ex-president made this known on Thursday in Obinugwu community, Orlu LGA of Imo State, where he attended the community’s 2018 New Yam Festival at the instance of the traditional ruler, Eze Cletus Ilomuanya, Vanguard reported.
Jonathan, who waxed philosophical, said, “I urge Nigerians not to despair in the face of persecution. Anything evil does not last for long. It is better to be persecuted for doing the right thing rather than being associated with despicable conducts.”
Read Also: What Jonathan Said About Buhari’s Govt During DSS Invasion Of NASS
While reminiscing on the persecution faced by the traditional ruler, Jonathan said, “Eze Ilomuanya as a man has suffered unjust persecution for insisting that the right things be done and never succumbed.
“This is because, in his conscience, he appreciates the need to remain steadfast in goodness rather than buckling under evil pressure.
“Eze Ilomuanya is a very good example of a worthy royal father who understands the imperative of living an upright life.
“We must appreciate goodness even when threatened with persecution because evil doesn’t last for long. A leader must be prepared to face a lot of challenges at some points in life which is what leadership often entails.”
Other dignitaries that joined the traditional ruler to welcome Jonathan include former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha and House of Representatives member representing Isu/Njaba/Nkwerre/Nwangele Federal Constituency, Mr. Jones Onyereri.