President Muhammadu Buhari has praised Ebonyi State governor, Dave Umahi for defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
He described the move as a bold one informed by the crave for good governance.
The president’s remark is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu.
The president was quoted as saying that with people like Umahi, there was hope for a better future for Nigeria’s democracy.
His words: “I am proud of Governor David Umahi for taking this bold decision in accordance with his conscience and principles, rather than any external influence or coercion.
“Good governance is very important to us in the APC, and I’m glad that the governor has cited this as a major factor in his decision to join us.
“I urge our citizens to pay less emphasis on identity politics if we want our democracy to make a positive impact on our country.
“With men like Umahi, I foresee a brighter future for our democracy because the voters will be more motivated by performance records of parties and their candidates.”
The president warned Umahi that he would face attacks over his action, but should not be bothered having acted based on his conscience.
“Let me once again commend the boldness of Governor Umahi for taking this courageous decision in a country where principles are in short supply among many.
“I know people might call him names, but that is the price men of principles have to pay for acting according to their conscience and convictions,” he said.
