Achebe’s rejection of National Honour regrettable –Presidency

Goodluck Jonathan
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Achebe’s rejection of National Honour regrettable –Presidency

The Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan has expressed surprise and regrets over the decision of world renowned author, Prof. Chinua Achebe, to reject the conferment of the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), on him.

The position of the president was contained in a statement released on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr Reuben Abati and made available to newsmen.

Background

In the statement, Abati said the president was surprised by Achebe’s claim that the issues which caused him to reject the same award seven years ago still remained unresolved.

The statement said “Coming as it does, against the background of the widely acclaimed electoral reforms undertaken by the Jonathan’s administration, the claim by Achebe clearly flies in the face of the reality of Nigeria’s current political situation.

Jonathan’s administration is reported to have made tremendous efforts to positively change the political architecture complained about by Achebe and other Nigerians.
This is as reflected in the 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 statement further said: “Nigeria cannot be said to be where it was in 2004 as Jonathan’s administration has embarked on extensive electoral reforms to institute a regime of electoral integrity that all Nigerians can be proud of.

This is informed by the belief that governance will be greatly enhanced in the country if the will of the people prevails at elections.

Challenges

Abati said the President recognized that there were still challenges in the path of Nigeria’s realization of its full potentials, but believed that his government was moving the country in the right direction.

He stressed that Jonathan’s administration, therefore deserved the support, encouragement and cooperation of all citizens.

According to Abati, President Jonathan would continue to hold Achebe in very high esteem, in spite of his “regrettable decision” which might have been borne out of misinformation as to the true state of affairs in Nigeria.

He said the President expressed the hope that Achebe would find time to visit home and see the progress being made by the administration.

Recipients

Some of the notable recipients of the award include, the Chairman Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Speaker House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Tambuwal, all Service Chiefs, Governors of Akwa-Ibom, Edo and Cross River States, Attorney General of the Federation, Mohammed Bello Adoke, Inspector General of Police, Hafiz Rigim, traditional rulers, academicians, famous Nollywood icons as well as sports personalities.

At least 365 Nigerians were nominated for the awards.

NP/Okafor/Ekata