I will work with Jonathan, says Buhari

Muhammadu Buhari, winner of March 28 presidential election has extended a hand of fellowship to President Goodluck Jonathan, dedicating his victory to the people of Nigeria.

Speaking shortly after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared him the president-elect, Buhari commended Jonathan for ensuring a free and fair election.

“President Jonathan has called to congratulate me on my victory,” he said.

“For this I want all Nigerians to join me in congratulating and appreciating Mr President for his statesmanship.

“President Jonathan engaged in a spirited campaign and was a worthy opponent. I extend my hand of fellowship to him. I look forward to meeting him soon as we plan the transition from one administration to another. He will receive nothing but understanding, cooperation and respect from me and my team.

“The good people of Nigeria answered the call of history; when the account of this fine moment is written, it will be said that it was the people themselves who led this nation to democracy.

“You stood in line patiently for hours in the rain, in the sun and in the dark just to cast your vote. Even though the election was extended to Sunday in some parts of the country, you still performed your civic duties and you did so peacefully.

“You voted with your heart and your votes affirm that you believe that Nigeria’s future can be better than what it is today. You voted for change and now change has come.”

Buhari said the people decided to entrust him with their mandate because they believe that he can transform the country and promised not to live below expectation.

He further said Nigerians have shown their love for democracy and that the result of the election reflects the will of the people.

“We have proven to the world that we are people who have embraced democracy. We have put one-party state behind us,” he said.

“You have voted for a party and president that will serve and govern but never rule over you. Change has come. A new day and a new Nigeria are upon us. The victory is yours and the glory is that of our nation – Nigeria

“INEC has released the official results of the presidential election. INEC has declared that I gained the most votes with the required spread and thus won this election. In a more profound way, it is you, Nigerians that have won. The people have shown their love for our nation and their belief in democracy.

“The declaration of INEC accurately reflects the will of the people. While there might have been some logistical obstacles and irregularities associated with the exercise, the result shall stand as what the people want.”

Expressing appreciation for being given the opportunity to serve, Buhari appealed for cooperation and understanding among the people.

“I thank all Nigerians for making this day possible,” he said.

“Our country has now joined the comity of nations which can use the ballot box to peacefully change an incumbent president in a free, fair and credible election. To me this is indeed historic.

“Most people will welcome the result because it is the one they voted for. Others will naturally be disappointed. I ask that we all be circumspect, respectful and peaceful in these times.

“This not the time for confrontation, it is the moment that we must begin to heal the wounds and work towards a better future.

“We do this first by extending our hand of fellowship and conciliation across the political divides. We hope and pray that our brothers in other parties reciprocate.”