The ruling All progressive Congress (APC) has demanded congratulatory messages from the opposition political parties, particularly the Peoples dDemocratic Party (PDP) on the re-election of governor Rotimi Akeredolu at the just concluded governorship election.
The incumbent Ondo state governor, Akeredolu, defeated other contenders at the governorship election to get re-election for the second term in office.
Addressing a news conference Monday in Abuja, Chairman of the APC’s caretaker/extraordinary convention planning committee and the Yobe state governor Mai Mala Buni, also told political parties to always maintain healthy competition in their quest to serve the people.
Governor Buni said: “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.
“It is 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.”
Buni who also expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission {INEC}, Security agencies, local and international observers during the poll.
“You have been professional and ethical in the discharge of your responsibilities. I am convinced that through genuine cooperation, we can always improve the electioneering process in Nigeria to build a strong democracy,” he said.
Applauding opposition political parties and their candidates for putting up a good fight in the election, he assured that the concept of team work being promoted by his caretaker committee will be sustained to ensure a strong, united and prosperous APC.
“With the conclusion of the Ondo state Governorship election, I sincerely express my gratitude to almighty God for the peaceful conduct of the election across the state. That 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.
“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.”
