The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has expressed condolence to President Goodluck Jonathan and Nigerians on the passing on of former President Umar Yar Adua after a protracted illness in Abuja .

In a statement by NGE Deputy President Tukur Abdulrahaman and Gen. Secretary, John Ndukauba, the guild said: “The death of Yar’Adua is a monumental loss to the country as it strives to consolidate on the gains of democratic governance after several years of debilitating years of military rule.

“Yar’Adua will be remembered for the strides the country made during his short tenure especially setting in motion the process for peace in the Niger Delta through the amnesty programme, the machinery for the electoral reforms and his unwaveriling commitment to combat the scourge of corruption.

“His policy on corruption is exemplified by the fact that he declared his asset on assumption of office thus challenging other public office owners to follow.

“Yar’Adua’s enunciation of the 7 point Agenda which sets out the major thrust of his administration was welcomed by all Nigerians.

“The Guild welcomes the smooth transition of power in the executive arm of government as it has shown that the country is firmly on the right track of democratic practice and due process.

“It is the hope of the NGE, that President Goodluck will build on the foundation laid by Yar Adua by ensuring hat the country has an electoral process in which the votes of Nigerians count and a credible leadership emerges for the country.

“The challenge before President Jonathan is also to confront the myriad of economic problems facing the country- the comatose power sector, creating jobs for the army of jobless youths, poor security in the country, the poor road network and the imperative of food security.

“The NGE believes that the Goodluck administration will be judged by Nigerians on how it was able to improve the lives of Nigerians.”