The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari subscribed to free, fair, credible elections. Mr. President said he will continue to act with neutrality and allow the rule of law to take precedence over political expediency.
During his speech, he explained that a peaceful election was demonstrated in Edo, Ondo, Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun States. The Federal Government allowed Nigerians to decide who should govern them without interfering. Buhari vowed that he will be committed to this legacy till the end of his administration.
Buhari tasked the security agencies, INEC, and other relevant institutions to be firm and courageous, and ensure they abide by the laws and constitutional provisions in conducting the elections. He assured them of full and continuous support.
Mr. President urged all candidates contesting in these elections at all levels to respect the choice of the masses and accept the result of the elections as announced by INEC which is the agency empowered by law to do so. He further advised any aggrieved candidate who might not support the outcome of the election should resort to the established judicial processes for legal review.
In his advice to Nigerians, he pleaded for no form of riots or acts of violence after the announcement of the election results.
Buhari said:
"Let me remind all Nigerians, not for the first time, that, this is the only country we have, and we must do everything to keep it safe, united and peaceful.
"All grievances, personal or institutional, should be channeled to the relevant Courts.
"We must constantly improve our electoral process using technology and all the positive elements it brings, to consolidate the integrity of our elections."