The All Progressives Congress (APC) has demanded congratulations from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on its victory at the Saturday’s Ondo governorship election, just as it did to the main opposition after the Edo governorship election.
The Chairman, APC Caretaker/Extraordinary National Convention Planning Committee and Governor of Yobe State, Mai-Mala Buni made this demand in Abuja on Monday while addressing a press conference on the outcome of the Ondo governorship election.
Buni said: “One good turn deserves another, and just like we congratulated PDP in the Edo election, we look forward to seeing PDP and the other political parties extend similar gesture to us in the spirit of good sportsmanship. By so doing, we will make elections in Nigeria healthier and attractive, rather than making elections a do or die affair”.
The Yobe Governor thanked God for the peaceful conduct of the election across the state as in spite of the fear of violence entertained in some quarters, the good people of Ondo state conducted themselves peacefully to elect their governor for the next four years.
Buni said: “I want to specially congratulate you the people of Ondo state because this is your victory. I also thank you very much for renewing your mandate and putting your trust in the All Progressives Congress for the next four years. I want to assure you that you made the right choice as the party and His Excellency Governor Rotimi Akeredolu values this trust and will not disappoint you.
“Our gratitude also goes to His Excellency President Muhammadu Buhari GCFR and His Excellency Vice President Yemi Osibanjo GCON for their leadership roles and support to ensure the party emerges victorious. Your guide and support had certainly led the party to the path of success.
“To the members of the Caretaker/Extraordinary National Convention Committee, your immeasurable support and commitment to ensure the party regains its strength and win this election is quite appreciative.
“May I express my bountiful appreciation to the Ondo state Reconciliation committee and Ondo State National Campaign council under the able leadership of their Excellencies Governor Abubakar Bello of Niger state and Governor Babajide San-Olu of Lagos state respectively along with members of the committees. The wonderful work of the two committees have contributed immensely to the success the party has recorded in this election.
“The efforts of the Ondo State Executive Committee, the local government and ward executives of the party, had greatly enriched our fortunes to win the election with less stress. The concept of teamwork being promoted by the Caretaker Committee remains our strong pillar in our collective quest to build a strong, united, and prosperous All Progressives Congress (APC). I, therefore, enjoin all stakeholders, party members, and supporters to promote teamwork in all future endeavors for the party’s success”.
He also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Security agencies, local and international observers, for being professional and ethical in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The APC leader also said: I am convinced that through genuine cooperation, we can always improve the electioneering process in Nigeria to build a strong democracy.
“I must not forget to commend other political parties and their candidates who put up a good fight in this election. I encourage us all to always maintain healthy competition in our quest to serve the people”.
