The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday handed certificate of return to the president-elect, General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd.), after his victory at the polls.
Buhari, the flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), got to this stage having won the March 28 presidential election, polling 15, 424,921 and meeting the constitutional requirement of at least 25 percent of votes in 27 states.
He beat the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, President Goodluck Jonathan, who scored 12,853,162 votes, representing 25 percent of votes in 26 states.
Attahiru Jega, chairman, INEC, while presenting the certificate of return to Buhari commended the country for their patience in conducting a peaceful election.
“We have done our best under all circumstance and gratified that Nigerians have utilised the opportunity by coming out in large numbers to exercise their franchise”.
He described this as important for the integrity of the governance process and to deepen democracy in the country.
He assured Nigerians of the commission’s commitment to ensuring a credible electoral process at all times.
“We will try to do our best to ensure free and fair, credible elections”.
Buhari who felt honoured that Nigerians have chosen him was full of thanks to God for the day and the hour. He assured that his administration would bring the change that Nigerians have craved and voted for.
“Today, history has been made, and change has finally come. Your votes have changed our national destiny for the good of all Nigerians”.
Details later….
