TheCable

Magnus Abe, senator-elect of Rivers east, has described his victory in the legislative rerun election as a reward for faithfulness.

Expressing appreciation to his constituents, Abe said there is “no victor, no vanquish”.

He extended hands of fellowship to Olaka Nwogu, his opponent in the race, and called on Nyesom Wike, governor of the state to congratulate him on his victory.

Abe also thanked President Muhammadu Buhari; Rotimi Amaechi, minister of transportation; and his wife for the role they played in his emergence.

“First is to say that this has been a titanic struggle; it has been a very difficult two years for Rivers people and for all of us,” he said in a statement.

“My victory in this election is a reward for faithfulness. I have been faithful to my party, the All Progressives Congress (APC).  I have been faithful to my people, the people of the Rivers south east senatorial district and I have been faithful to my leaders and I think God in his infinite mercies has rewarded me with this unprecedented victory. There is no victor, no vanquish.

“I want to thank my friend and brother, Distinguished Senator Olaka Nwogu for his very kind and peaceful words, which he has expressed to the people of this state.

“I also want to use this opportunity to extend a hand of friendship to the executive Governor of Rivers State, Barrister Nyesom Wike and to say to him that he had promised that there was nothing personal in this contest and he has said that if I win he will congratulate me. The only barometer for measuring success in an election in this country is the declaration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the commission has declared me the winner, I want to call on the governor to keep his words and send me his letter and words of congratulation because I have won.

“I want to also say that Rivers state has suffered enough and that it is time for us to bring this contest to an end.

“I want to thank my leaders, President Muhammadu Buhari, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, my wife, my family and most importantly, the people of Rivers south east senatorial district. You have spoken and you have spoken loud and clear. We should respect your views. We should work together to make this district a better place for Nigerians to live.

“I want to thank my colleagues in the senate for their kind words, friendship and support and I look forward to joining them in the red chamber as soon as possible.”