I am set for 2015 presidential poll — Balewa’s son

Son of the late Nigeria’s First Republic Prime Minister, Dr Abdul Jelil Tafawa Balewa, has affirmed that with the right political party, he was fully prepared to contest the 2015 presidential election. He said having consulted widely; he was convinced that Nigerians had been yearning for a new leadership capable of fulfilling the high expectations and aspirations of the greater majority in Nigeria. He said although his interest in the presidential seat was originally prompted by those he described as well-meaning elder statesmen from across the geopolitical zones of Nigeria, he was more prepared to take up the challenge. Balewa’s son said his entry into politics would add value to the Nigerian democracy given the finesse, candour and pragmatism, which he would be infusing into the system based on experiences. He said being close to President Goodluck Jonathan had made his attempt to lead Nigeria more interesting, as he would not consider contest for Nigeria’s presidential seat a do or die affair. Jonathan, he said, was a pragmatic politician, who had always welcomed free and fair contest. On the political platform to use, Jelili, a medical expert, said he would keep that under wrap for strategic reason. He affirmed, however, that at the nick of time, the political party that would offer him ticket would come clearly to intimate Nigerians about its agenda. He said; “Some political parties have been talking to me alright. I have more than two of the parties, including the major ones showing interest. It will be unfair for me to start dropping names, more so when consultations were still ongoing on the next line of action.”