ABUJA—PPRESIDENT Goodluck Jonathan’s run for the 2011 presidency took another major leap, yesterday, with Igbo leaders in the 19 northern states endorsing his candidature for Saturday’s presidential election.

At a courtesy call on the President in State House, the delegation of over forty leaders of Igbo community associations in the 19 northern states commended President Jonathan for stabilizing the nation at a critical juncture of its history, noting that his administrative dexterity and egalitarian posture had endeared him to the hearts of not only the Igbo people but all Nigerians nationwide.

Mr. Oge Ogechukwu of the FCT chapter who spoke on behalf of others said the President’s detribalized stance has opened a vista of equal opportunities for all Nigerians.

While assuring that Igbos in the northern states and nationwide will vote en masse for the President come Saturday, Ogechukwu said: “We will go to the hinterland to mobilise all our people that Mr. President must be made to stay in Aso Rock.”

The group urged the President to take more stringent measures to ensure security of lives and property of all Nigerians.

President Jonathan thanked the delegation for endorsing him and said his administration in a fresh four year mandate will engender a nation where all Nigerians will pursue their aspirations without fear of molestation or discrimination.

The President promised to pursue the unity and development of the country at all times, noting that “development and poverty do not speak ethnic languages.”