#NigeriaDecides2019 | Buhari pays tribute to victims of electoral violence

President Muhammadu Buhari has paid tribute to those who lost their lives either through accidents or mindless violence during the course of the February 23 elections.

The president, who spoke after he received a Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, on Wednesday.

“My heart and thoughts are with the families of the victims. May God comfort and give them the fortitude to bear the loss,’’ he said.

President Buhari, who noted that the elections had been adjudged free and fair by both local and international observers, enjoined all Nigerians to see the outcome of the election as a victory for Nigeria.

“From the comments of several observers both local and foreign, it is obvious that the elections were both free and fair.

“Now that the elections are over, and a winner declared, we must all see it as a victory for Nigeria, our dear country. That was why I encouraged my teeming supporters, in a speech I read earlier today, not to gloat.

“Our God-given victory is enough cause for joy, without deriding those who were in the opposition. All Nigerians, going forward, must stand in brotherhood, for a bright and fulfilling future,’’ he said.

He, therefore, assured that his administration would continue to engage all parties that have the best interest of Nigerians at heart.

The president said that the APC-led administration would remain inclusive and its doors would remain open.

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“That is the way to build the country of our dream; safe, secure, prosperous, and free of impunity and primitive accumulation by those entrusted with public offices.

“The hard work to deliver a better Nigeria continues, building on the foundations of peace, rule of law and opportunities for all. We will roll up our sleeves afresh, and give it our all.

“We have no other motive than to serve Nigeria with our hearts and might, and build a nation which we and generations to come can be proud of,’’ he added.

President Buhari, who thanked over 15 million citizens who voted for him, those who contributed in many ways in the running of his successful campaign, and those at home and abroad who expressed confidence in him and the APC government.

“I can assure that you will see a country moving to the Next Level, as we consolidate on our fundamental areas of securing the country, reviving the economy, and fighting corruption.

“Many other focal areas, as stated in our campaign manual, will be added, to the good things we plan for our country,’’ he said.

According to him, the election is not war, and should never be seen as a do or die affair.

He said: “I pray that we all accept this democratic approach to elections, however contentious.’’