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- Promises all inclusive government
- Welcomes challenge of election result in court
- Calls for youths’ support
- “Hold us firmly to account, but please give us a chance first” Tinubu tells youth
Safiu Kehinde
The newly elected President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has expressed his gratitude to Nigerians over their turnout for the just concluded general election regardless of their political affinity as he emerged the new President of the nation.
The APC flag bearer admonished his countrymen for their participation in the democratic process while stressing that renewed hope has dawned in Nigeria.
“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.” Tinubu
Speaking in his first address as the President-elect, Tinubu commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for their effort in running free and fair election which, according to him, is dotted with few lapses.
“I’m 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.
“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.” He said.
While rendering friendship gesture to his opponents, Tinubu, however, urged whoever find the election result displeasing to take legal course of action rather than instigating violence and civil unrest.
“…you may have been my opponent but you were never my enemy. In my heart, you are my brothers.”
“To my fellow candidates, former VP Atiku, former governor Kwankwaso, former governor 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.” Tinubu added.
He also urges his supporters to promote peace and tranquility while pleading with aggrieved members of the public to give room for better aspect of humanity in their endeavors as the journey to bring heal and calm to the nation commence.
Meanwhile, the APC Chieftain, admitted to the cry and yearning of Nigerian youths for good governance and functional economy.
“Hold us firmly to account, but please give us a chance first.”- Tinubu
He called for their support in rebuilding the nation while noting the he and his administration should be held accountable if they fail in performing their duty, but urged Nigerians to give them a chance first.
“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.
“My running mate, Vice President-elect Shettima, and I understand the challenges ahead. More importantly, we also understand and deeply value the talent and innate goodness of you, the Nigerian people. We pledge to listen and to do the difficult things, the big deeds, that put us on the path of irreversible progress. Hold us firmly to account, but please give us a chance first.
“Together, we shall build a brighter and more productive society for today, tomorrow and for years to come.” Tinubu stated.
He finally vowed to bring an end to University strike and maintain the autonomous state of the tertiary institutions.
“The Youths of Nigeria, I heard you loud and clear. We are on this journey together. I will not let you down. There will be no university strike again and your universities shall be autonomous, there shall be student loans. I’ll be your servant not your leader…” He added.
