By Kalu Nwokoro Idika
President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the winner of Ekiti state gubernatorial election despite reported vote-buying that marred the process.
According to a statement by Buhari’s media aide, Femi Adesina, the victory governor-elect, Mr Biodun Oyebanji shows complete acceptance of the party by Nigerians.
Buhari further said that the victory was well deserved considering Oyebanji’s contributions to the development of the state and the party before his nomination as the standard bearer.
He, however, urged Oyebanji to be magnanimous in victory in the interest of the people of the state.
The President also felicitated with the APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Adamu, and the National Working Committee (NWC) for the victory, the first under the tenure of the newly elected executives of the party.
“This is a good beginning for you and your team. The APC is getting stronger and more united. The victory of our party in Ekiti is an indication of the confidence of Nigerians in the ability of our great party to deliver quality governance to all,” said the President.
He charged all APC members across and outside the country to see this as a good omen for the 2023 general elections and work assiduously to ensure the party’s victory, continuing the trend with Osun governroship election next month.
Buhari, who also rejoiced with the people of Ekiti State for the smooth conduct of the election, said they were the real victors as they had been able to freely choose their leader for the next four years.
He further hailed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the law enforcement agencies for the preparations put in place, urging them to sustain the momentum in the upcoming elections.
