I have no quarrel with Lamido – Jonathan

From Edwin Olofu, Dutse

President Goodluck Jonathan has dispelled rumours making the round that all is not well between him and Jigawa state governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, saying the insinuation is just a figment of the imagination of the opposition.

Jonathan was speaking at the Jigawa state stakeholders’ meeting in the Government House yesterday, shortly after he commissioned the Jigawa state International Airport.

He admitted that it is normal for two to disagree politically, but that it has not affected their relationship, noting that two of them enjoy the best of relationship.

“Strained relationship comes sometimes; I know the role Lamido played in my election in 2011. If a governor means well for you, he can at least support you during the primaries. Sule was totally committed to me and he is not somebody who talks with both sides of his mouth; He is somebody I trust.

“But let me tell you that I have no problem with Lamido and I will never have problems with Jigawa people. We will continue to do more to make Nigeria better and reduce poverty across board.

“I want to assure you that the relationship between the federal government , the presidency and Jigawa will continue to be strong.”

He praised governor Lamido for the giant stride he has recorded in the past seven years, describing the development as unprecedented.

Speaking on behalf of the stakeholders, former Minister of Power and Steel, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu assured President Jonathan of the support of the governor and the stakeholders.

“We here have been supporting you and will continue to do so. We are honest and loyal to you. There is therefore a divine responsibility to point out what is the truth. Lamido is not against you. He is loyal to you and we believe you will continue to work with him. As a measure of Goodluck you will succeed.