Nigeria’s elections whilst not entirely devoid of violence have led to the first time an incumbent has lost the presidency.
Most of the international community have been satisfied with the conduct, and congratulatory messages continue to pour in for our West African neighbours.
US President Barack Obama released a statement a short while ago, congratulating them on polls well done. It also mentioned the swiftness with which President Jonathan conceded the elections.
This is the full statement as released as President Obama…
“The last few days have shown the world the strength of Nigeria’s commitment to democratic principles. By turning out in large numbers and sometimes waiting all day to cast their votes, Nigerians came together to decide the future of their country peacefully.”
“President Goodluck Jonathan has conceded the election to challenger Muhammadu Buhari. It’s the first democratic change of power in Africa’s most populous nation, one that has seen six military coups and much political violence since achieving independence in 1960.”
“I urge President-Elect Buhari and President Jonathan to repeat their calls to their supporters to continue to respect the election outcomes, focus on unifying the country, and together lead Nigeria through a peaceful transition”
“Looking ahead to the gubernatorial elections on April 11, it is imperative that national attention turn to ensuring isolated logistical challenges are overcome and peace is protected, even in the most hotly contested races.
On behalf of the American people, I extend congratulations to the people of Nigeria and to President-Elect Buhari and look forward to continuing to work with the newly-elected government on our many shared priorities.”
Kofi Annan’s statement wasn’t much different, congratulating the people of Nigeria and their leaders for conducting a peaceful poll. The former UN secretary general also called for calm in the days ahead and that there is no outbreak of violence.
Statement by Kofi Annan on the outcome of the Nigerian presidential elections
The Nigerian people have spoken, and they have elected General Muhammadu Buhari. I offer him my warmest congratulations on his electoral success.
At the same time, I wish to express great appreciation to President Goodluck Jonathan for his service to the nation and for accepting the electoral outcome in a democratic spirit.
My congratulations go as well to Professor Attahiru Jega and the Independent National Electoral Commission for their extraordinary efforts to ensure that the elections were held in a transparent manner as well for ensuring that most Nigerians had the opportunity to cast their vote.
My thanks extend as well as to the many thousands of poll workers, electoral observers, party agents and civil society organisations who helped to ensure that these elections succeeded despite many difficulties.
I also commend the security services for ensuring security and calm during the electoral process.
The Nigerian people have exercised their democratic rights. Despite the threat from Boko Haram, voters came out to cast their votes. At some polling stations, even though they were attacked, voters came back to vote. That shows the determination of the people of Nigeria to have a say in how they are governed, and by whom.
I hope, therefore, that the will of the people will not be marred by violence in the days ahead. I call on all Nigerians to respect the results and seek redress, if need be, through appropriate and peaceful means.
The president elect will assume office at a difficult juncture in Nigeria’s fortunes. He will need the support of every Nigerian and the international community to steer the country through these turbulent times. To do so, he must govern as the president of all Nigerians, and avoid any “winner-takes-all” tendency, while also respecting the role of the opposition.
I wish President-elect Buhari and the Nigerian people every success as they embark on their journey of national renewal.