Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the last governorship election in Edo State, Dr Asue Ighodalo, has sent warm felicitations to former President of Nigeria, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, on his 67thbirthday anniversary.

Ighodalo in a statement by Team Asue Media Organization (TAMO) and signed by Mr Erhabor Emokpae in Benin City on Wednesday, said the former Nigerian president deserves to be celebrated for his exemplary leadership, political philosophy and sacrifices toward nation-building, peaceful co-existence and the unity of all segments of society in Nigeria.

Ighodalo noted that since President Jonathan left office, he has continued to be relevant by showing leadership and capacity, rendering invaluable service to the nation and the African continent at large. He commended him for the remarkable achievements in international peace mediations and pro-democracy efforts on the continent.

He said: "On a special day like this, I wish to heartily congratulate you, our amiable and highly revered elder statesman, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, on the 67thanniversary of your birth.

“As a man who personifies peace and a unifier par excellence in Nigeria and the continent of Africa, your commitment to goodwill, peace, transparent and humane leadership is an open book which many read daily. You have deployed these virtues with disarming humility, tact and diplomacy in resolving critical situations across the continent and thereby fostering the growth and sustenance of democracy on the continent.

“Your leadership style which emphasises peace, love, unity, dialogue, integrity and selflessness in search for stability, growth and development is worth emulating and celebrating.

“It’s on that note, therefore, that I wish you many happier years of continued service to our great nation and humanity and pray that God grants you more wisdom, robust health and more successes in all your undertakings.

“Congratulations and Happy Birthday, Your Excellency.”