Jonathan: No Going Back on Recognition of New Govt in Libya

President Goodluck Jonathan yesterday said he still stands by the recognition accorded the National Transitional Council (NTC) in Libya saying that Nigeria’s foreign policy would not be dictated to her by the government, party or opinion of another country.
Jonathan, who spoke through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati, dismissed the reported position of a South African, saying it was the view of an individual member of a party and not the position of the South African government.
Briefing State House Correspondents on the performance of his principal in the first 100 days in office, Abati said the promise not to let Nigerians down was vigorously being pursued and implemented in a way that foreign ratings have put Nigeria on the path of overtaking South Africa to be the continent’s number one investment destination.
Abati defended Nigeria’s position on Libya, pointing out that the government had already advised the Transitional Council to ensure that the interests of the people were protected, and for them to quickly institute multi-party democracy, ensure reconciliation and reconstruction of the country.
“So the position of an ANC member does not really amount to the position of the South African government. However, let this be clear, Nigeria has every right as a sovereign entity to take a position on any international issue. It is not a question of one country holding a higher moral ground than the other. Each country has its own foreign policy ideals and objectives and it is completely beside the point to say that one country is criticising the position held by the other. Nigeria's position is very clear and is consistent and it is principled,” he said.