President-elect Muhammadu Buhar this morning told Nigerians that they have voted for a president that will only govern, not rule over them.
Buhari said this in a brief address to the people after his victory was announced, stating that he would make a “more formal” speech when he receives his certificate of return from the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
“You stood in line patiently for hours in the rain, in the sun and then in the dark to cast your votes. Even when the vote was extended to Sunday in some places, you still performed your civic duties. You did so peacefully. You voted with your hearts. Your vote affirms that you believe Nigeria’s future can be better than what it is today,” Buhari observed.
He stated that Nigerians had voted for change and assured that they “have voted for a party and president that will serve and govern but never rule over you.’
He confirmed that President Goodluck Jonathan called him yesterday evening to congratulate him and said the President has his respect.
“At exactly 5:15 yesterday evening, President Jonathan called to congratulate me on my victory.
“For this, I want all Nigerians to join me in congratulating and appreciating Mr President for his statesmanship,” Buhari said.
“He will receive nothing but understanding, cooperation and respect from me and my team,” the President – elect assured.
Praising the people’s resolve to participate in the election, Buhari credited Nigerians with his victory, saying: “It is you Nigerians that have won. You people have shown your love for our nation and your belief in democracy.”
He enjoined his supporters to be magnanimous in victor by reaching out to the opposition.
“This was a hard fought contest. Emotions were high. We must not allow them to get the better of us. This is not the time for confrontation. This is a moment that we must begin to heal the wounds and work towards a better future,” he said
This, he said, could be achieved “by extending a hand of friendship and reconciliation across the political divide,” adding, ‘We hope and pray our friends in other parties reciprocate.”
Buhari said Nigerians must remain peaceful and law abiding to protect the country’s image in the international circle.
“Most people will welcome the result because it is the one they voted for. Others will a little bit be disappointed. I ask that we all be circumspect, respectful and peaceful in these times.