The President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has commended Nigerians for their participation and dedication to the survival of democracy in the country.
Tinubu, who was early hour on Wednesday declared winner of the presidential election by the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, in his acceptance speech, disclosed that Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliation have done so well by participating in the democratic process for a better and more hopeful Nigeria.
“I am profoundly humbled that you have elected me to serve as the 16th president of our beloved republic. This is a shining moment in the life of any man and affirmation of our democratic existence. From my heart, I say thank you.
“Whether you are Batified, Atikulated, Obidient, Kwankwasiyya, or have any other political affiliation, you voted for a better, more hopeful nation and I thank you for your participation and dedication to our democracy.
“You decided to place your trust in the democratic vision of a Nigeria founded on shared prosperity and one nurtured by the ideals of unity, justice, peace and tolerance. Renewed hope has dawned in Nigeria.
“I thank the Nigerian people for their abiding belief in our democracy. I shall be a fair leader to all Nigerians. I will be in tune with your aspirations, charge up your energies and harness your talents to deliver a nation that we can be proud of,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu, in his speech, assured the youth of good governance, a functional economy and adequate security. He, therefore, solicited their support to move the Nigerian forward.
“Now, to you, the young people of this country, I hear you loud and clear. I understand your pains, your yearnings for good governance, a functional economy and a safe nation that protects you and your future.
“I am aware that for many of you Nigeria has become a place of abiding challenges limiting your ability to see a bright future for yourselves.
“Remodeling our precious national home requires the harmonious efforts of all of us, especially the youth. Working together, we shall move this nation as never before.”
The former governor of Lagos State governor, while extending his hands of friendship to other presidential candidates, urged any of them who find it difficult to accept the outcome of election to approach the court to challenge the result rather than resort to violence.
“To my fellow candidates, former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, former governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, former governor Peter Obi and all others, I extend the hand of friendship. This was a competitive, high-spirited campaign.
“You have my utmost respect. Political competition must now give way to political conciliation and inclusive governance. During the election, you may have been my opponent but you were never my enemy. In my heart, you are my brothers.
“Still, I know some candidates will be hard put to accept the election results. It is your right to seek legal recourse. What is neither right nor defensible is for anybody to resort to violence. Any challenge to the electoral outcome should be made in a court of law, and not in the streets,
“Yes, there are divisions amongst us that should not exist. Many people are uncertain, angry and hurt; I reach out to every one of you. Let the better aspects of our humanity step forward at this fateful moment. Let us begin to heal and bring calm to our nation.”
The President-elect commended President Muhammadu Buhari for his support throughout the campaign and INEC for ensuring a free and fair election.
“I thank all who supported my campaign. From President Buhari who adeptly led my campaign as its chairman, to my Vice Presidential Candidate, Senator Kashim Shettima. We commend INEC for running a free and fair election. The lapses that did occur were relatively few in number and were immaterial to the final outcome. With each cycle of elections, we steadily perfect this process so vital to our democratic life.
“Today, Nigeria stands tall as the giant of Africa. It shines even brighter as the continent’s biggest democracy.
“I thank my loving wife and dear family whose support was ceaseless and inspiring. Without you, this victory would not be possible.
I am grateful to Almighty God. By His mercy, I was born a son of Nigeria and through His sublime purpose I find myself the victor of this election. May He grant me the wisdom and courage to lead the nation to the greatness He alone has destined for it,” Tinubu said.
