Inauguration: Buhari, Tinubu laud Nigeria’s democracy

President Muhammadu Buhari and the President-elect, Bola Tinubu, have hailed the maturing and uninterrupted democratic journey of Nigeria since 1999.

Buhari, while addressing African Heads of State, members of the diplomat corps, and other participants in a Gala Night to mark the 2023 presidential inauguration at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Sunday, May 28, said the 2023 general election was a testimony of Nigerians’ resolve towards deepening their democratic experience.

President Buhari said: “Something spectacular happened in our political development where ten serving governors failed to make it to the Senate, this is unprecedented in Nigerian political history for a serving governor to fail to win election in his base.

“But, we should look at it positively; it means Nigerians are very much aware of their powers when there is authority that can make sure that their votes count, how can a serving governor who served for eight years in his state lose in his constituency to go to the Senate.

“This is unprecedented but it happened in Nigeria, I congratulate Nigerians who realise their power that their votes count.”

On his part, Tinubu said the lessons many African nations would take away from Nigeria’s enduring democracy were resilience and courage.

The President-elect stated: “What lessons have Nigeria’s democracy taught the rest of Africa if not part of the world is resilience, determination, courage, and love in diversity despite our tongue and tribes are different.

“Here is a country that has stumbled many times but we never fall apart and we will never break apart, we are just a unique country; we must fight corruption, poverty, inconsistencies in policy, and many other problems confronting us.

“But, don’t pity me. I ask for the job, I campaign for it, no excuses, I will leave up to the deal, I promise you.”

Tinubu further assured Nigerians of his determination to deliver on his campaign promises.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Presidential Transition Council and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said the event was a symbolic representation of Nigeria’s unity and progress.

“It is an opportunity for us to showcase the vibrant culture, rich heritage, and warm hospitality that Nigeria is known for,” Mustapha stated.

The Star

Segun Ojo