The grand finale of the presidential campaign of President Jonathan ended yesterday at the Eagle Square, Abuja with the President pledging to "clear every vested interest" that would attempt to block the transformation of Nigeria.
Jonathan announced that if his mandate is renewed on April 9, 2011, he would build a nation that will be the pride of generations to come.
According to him, "I pledge my personal commitment to the lifting of Nigeria and the citizens."
The President also condemned political violence, saying, "neither my ambition, nor the ambition of any Nigerian is worth the blood of any Nigerian, stating, "we are going to adopt modern technology in protecting the lives and property of the citizens."
The President said he repudiates all forms of political violence, warning, "there will be no sanctuary for any violent act in Nigeria. If you get involved, be ready to face the law."
The President said that in the next two years, 1.5 million jobs would be created in Nigeria. He also pledged to apply strictly the rule of law in all spheres, insisting: "We are determined to fight corruption regardless of the position of the person involved."
Jonathan acknowledged that his opponents had done a good job, but added, "their solutions are hopelessly inadequate and are mostly made up of "models that have failed in the past and belong to the past."
The President also said he would work assiduously to improve the nation's infrastructure, education, agriculture and generally provide an enabling environment for Nigeria to thrive.
The President's convoy had arrived the Eagle Square by 12.25pm amidst cheers, jubilation, dancing and musical display. He alighted from the bus conveying him and other dignitaries and undertook a "victory march" round the stands, waving to his supporters and acknowledging cheers.
There was a security cordon around the venue with security personnel conducting searches on those entering the premises. In addition, all vehicles located within the area were towed away by security personnel.
All adjoining roads leading to the Eagle Square were closed to vehicular movement except for officially designated vehicles. Pedestrians carrying bags had them frisked by security agents.
The blockade of all roads from the Central Business District to the Three Arms Zone location of the Eagle Square, State House, National Assembly and the Supreme Court caused a build-up of traffic in other parts of the city.
Party enthusiasts, who participated in the grand finale of the rally, had to park their vehicles away from the venue and walk to the Square. Food sellers, who had thought of taking advantage of the rally to make quick sales, were disappointed, as they were not allowed near the venue.
Police orderlies and other security details attached to dignitaries attending the rally were not allowed to carry firearms into the Square.
Source: Jonathan Ends Presidential Campaign, Pledges Transformation (http://www.guardiannewsngr.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=42900:jonathan-ends-presidential-campaign-pledges-transformation&catid=1:national&Itemid=559)