Literary
giant, Chinua Achebe, has once again rejected a conferment on him of
the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) by the
federal government. In a statement today, Achebe explained why:
The reasons for rejecting the offer when it
was first made have not been addressed let alone solved. It is
inappropriate to offer it again to me. I must therefore regretfully
decline the offer again". ~Prof. Chinua Achebe.
President Jonathan responded by issuing a statement today via his spokesperson Reuben Abati...
Coming as it does, against the background of
the widely acclaimed electoral reforms undertaken by the Jonathan
Administration, the claim by Prof. Achebe clearly flies in the face of
the reality of Nigeria’s current political situation.
As reflected
in the immense improvements recorded in the conduct of the last general
elections which were applauded within and outside the country as the
most credible elections in Nigeria in recent years, the Jonathan
Administration has made tremendous efforts to positively change the
political architecture complained about by Prof. Achebe and other
Nigerians.
Politically, Nigeria
cannot be said to be where it was in 2004 as the Jonathan
Administration has embarked on extensive electoral reforms to institute a
regime of electoral integrity that all Nigerians can be proud of,
believing that governance will be greatly enhanced in the country if the
will of the people prevails at elections.
While
President Jonathan acknowledges that there are still challenges in the
path of Nigeria’s attainment of its full potentials as a nation, he
believes that his Administration is moving the country in the right
direction and therefore deserves the support, encouragement and
cooperation of all citizens.
The
President continues to hold Prof. Achebe in very high esteem in spite
of his regrettable decision which may have been borne out of
misinformation as to the true state of affairs in Nigeria and hopes
that he will find time to visit home soon and see the progress being
made by the Jonathan Administration for himself.
Prof.
Achebe remains in President Jonathan’s consideration, a national icon,
a Nigerian of high attainments, indeed one of the greatest living
Africans of our time.
What do you think?
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