TheCable

Senate President Ahmad Lawan has described Udom Emmanuel, governor of Akwa Ibom state, as the face of the new Nigerian politicians.

Lawan gave the commendation while speaking at the 60th birthday anniversary celebration and thanksgiving service of Akon Eyakenyi, senator representing Akwa Ibom south senatorial district, at Destiny International Mission, Uyo, on Sunday.

He described Emmanuel as a very decent person, a tolerant leader and a purpose driven administrator who would work across party lines to achieve development objectives.

He said the governor is one of Nigeria’s leaders to look up to as he fits into the country’s desired new political dispensation.

“I want to say something about his Excellency, the Governor [Udom Emmanuel. As a politician, he is a decent man, very decent; as a practicing politician, he is a very tolerant leader,” he said.

“Here is one elected leader who believes we should all work together to deliver service to Nigerians. Your Excellency I commend you.”

Lawan said the politics of the new Nigeria, “which the 9th senate stands for”, is defined to a large extent, by how to reach a desired destination in service delivery, devoid of partisanship and rancour.

In his remarks, Emmanuel thanked Lawan for leading senators to celebrate with their colleague.

He acknowledged the “wide acceptance” of the senate leadership headed by Lawan and described the 9th assembly as one of the most peaceful in the history of Nigeria’s democracy.