Jonathan said this on Monday while inaugurating the 1.15-kilometer Afi-Uko Nteghe Uda Bridge on Etebi-Enwang Road in Akwa Ibo State's Mbo Local Government Area.
The former president, who was in attendance with his wife, Patience, stated that politics should not be used as a means to commit a crime and asked security forces not to show leniency to criminals.
He stated, "I am a little concerned about the negative aura around the 2023 elections. We have observed a level of acrimony in our politics that is not conducive to progress, and I implore politicians to understand that politics is about marketing your ideas. Politics does not involve conflict, insults, or abuse.
"We have been reading in the newspapers and on social media about how billboards of presidential and gubernatorial candidates are being torn down by thugs, but we have also heard that some governments promote such actions.
"I believe criminals should not be discussed in political discourse. Arson is arson, regardless of social standing; therefore, anyone who commits a crime, such as burning houses or killing people, must keep a record, and regardless of what the investigation reveals, such individuals should be prosecuted; this is the only way to stop people from doing this."
Jonathan described the bridge as one of the longest in West Africa and praised Governor Udom Emmanuel for his development achievements, stating that his administration has the best interests of the state's citizens at heart.
Emmanuel, for his part, stated that his accomplishments throughout the state have pleased his conscience, adding that despite the accusations and falsehoods spread about his administration, he has attempted not to be sidetracked.
He praised the community for its support of the building of the project, stating that it validates his pledge to open up the riverine areas.
(Source: punchng.com)
