While presenting his administration’s handover notes to incoming president Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday, outgoing president Goodluck Jonathan was virtually in tears. The tears were more visible as he made what became his farewell speech to the nation.
Although Jonathan’s tears were not visible to those watching him on television, those who were present on the occasion spotted the wetness in his eyes. Many of his aides did not, however, hide their tears: they wept openly; others sobbed.
The tears are likely to return to Jonathan’s eyes again today at Eagle Square, venue of the inauguration, with world leaders present. His wife Patience is likely to use the hanky several times, wherever she will be.
Jonathan and his wife would, finally, realise the saying that “power is transient”. Only a week ago, he lamented that friends had deserted him.
But in his home state Bayelsa, a grand welcome party awaits him.
