Tinubu to Saraki: Focus on tasks ahead

Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the leader of  the All Progressives Congress (APC) has welcomed the withdrawal of forgery charge against Senate President Bukola Saraki and his Deputy Ike Ekweremadu.

In  a statement by Tunde Rahman, Tinubu said the withdrawal of the charge was timely and will enable the National Assembly focus on the important work ahead.

“To bring the progressive change the APC vowed to the people of this nation, will require active and innovative governance.  New legislation will be required to help pull the nation out of the economic quagmire.

“More important,such visionary legislation will be even more needed to permanently reform our national economic architecture so that we may promote the type of diverse, durable economic growth and employment that will ensure a stronger future and better insulate the nation from the fragility inherent in basing the economic welfare of the nation on the global price of a single commodity. This must be our top priority.

“While those involved may understandably feel a sense of relief or vindication, this is no time for them to celebrate or to believe all is well with the nation simply because all has turned out well for them on this matter. All is not well.

“Throughout the nation, the people stagger and groan under the weight of economic hardship. This government and our party must hear and respond to their plea. We must lead the way.

“A mind and heart unburdened by the spectre of possible legal liability is also free to devote itself to the pressing matters of state. Consequently, this action presents a unique window of opportunity for the National Assembly to reset its bearings and to focus on the real issues at hand.

“History will not look kindly on those involved if they were to squander this fine chance. As never before, Nigerians look to the various arms of government to perform their roles so that the country can walk the path of change and renewal.

“May those who are the beneficiaries of this legal outcome now rededicate yourselves to fulfilling the progressive tenets of the APC and to honoring the promises we made to the people with regard to their governance and well being. Now that you have overcome this legal battle, you must dedicate yourselves to helping Nigeria win the greater war against poverty, despair and failure. No matter our past difference, in this effort we must stand united in purpose and resolve. Nigeria must do more than survive. It must thrive.”