Nigeria Gets a New President

New Acting President - Goodluck Jonathan

After months of political turmoil, Nigeria’s Vice President Goodluck Jonathan has assumed the Presidency to fill a power vacuum that was created as a result of President Umaru Yar’Adua leaving the country for medical treatment in Saudi Arabia. In an effort to end uncertainty that has threatened to disrupt government business, Parliament agreed to recognise Jonathan as acting head of state “The circumstances in which I find myself assuming office today as acting president of our country are uncommon, sober and reflective,” Jonathan said.He urged Nigerians to pray for the President’s recovery and return.

Nigeria’s cabinet had previously opposed any formal transfer of powers. Justice Minister and Attorney General, Michael Aondoakaa said Jonathan had the government’s full support and promised it would not obstruct him from acting as president. “What is important now at this stage is to move the country forward.” Both legislative chambers of parliament passed motions to enable Jonathan to pass legislation and act as commander of the armed forces until Yar’Adua declares he is fit enough to resume work. Campaign for elections due by 2011 have started earnestly and the fact that the President now appears extremely unlikely to contest a second term will only intensify the battle.

The Senate and House of Representatives have both made it clear that Jonathan would hold executive powers only until the president could resume office. The opposition Action Congress, wants Yar’Adua removed completely and dismissed the motions by parliament and Jonathan’s announcement. “It is an illegality and an exercise in futility. It is unconstitutional,” said spokesman Lai Mohammed. Despite the constitutional doubts, Jonathan’s empowerment means that government business can go on and that he will be able to sign the 2010 budget into law once it is agreed in parliament. The new Acting President said that the government would take every step necessary to build on the gains of an amnesty programme in the oil-producing Niger Delta.

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