“Mandela was filled with humility, forgiving spirit and the ability to unite people; unlike some Nigerian politicians who speak “as if Nigeria is their bedroom”- President Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan, yesterday, paid tribute to anti-Apartheid icon, Dr. Nelson Mandela who died last Thursday, saying Nigerian politicians could not be compared with him as they threaten, boast and play little gods.

According to him, such Nigerian politicians are tiny men and it is antithetical to good character of leadership

He stated this at a memorial service in honour of the late leader of South Africa, at Aso Rock Chapel in Abuja.

But Mandela, he continued, was filled with humility, forgiving spirit and the ability to unite people, which he said sharply contrasted with the utterances of some Nigerian politicians who speak “as if Nigeria is their bedroom” from where they make proclamation and intimidate others.

“When I listen to some politicians older than me, I come to the conclusion that it is truly difficult for a camel to pass through the eyes of a needle than for a politician to achieve greatness.

“The great names we hear today in Nigeria are not enough, as the same names played repressive roles and ruled repressively during their days as rulers in this country,” Jonathan said.

President Jonathan noted that it was ironic that all those who fought and called Mandela a terrorist were now singing his praises.

“Anybody that will make changes should not expect praises. They will call you names but the end matters much.”

Also speaking, South African High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Louis Mnguni, said Mandela was indeed selfless, adding that even though he could have made money for himself as a lawyer, he chose to remain and die a combatant.

Mnguni also appreciated Nigeria for all the support it has always rendered, stating that “despite its own numerous challenges, Nigeria has not taken its eyes off South Africa.”