By Halimah Olamide
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday called on his challengers at the tribunal to come together and support his administration.
In his first response after the decision of the tribunal which validated his election, Tinubu said his challengers only exercised their democratic rights.
While welcoming the judgment of the court, Tinubu said he is prepared to serve all Nigerians, irrespective of all diverse political persuasions, faiths, and tribal identities.
A statement by Ajuri Ngelale, his adviser on media said the President recognizes the diligence, undaunted thoroughness and professionalism of the five-member bench, led by Justice Haruna Tsammani in interpreting the law.
“The President affirms that his commitment to the rule of law, and the unhindered discharge of duties by the Court, as witnessed in the panel’s exclusive respect for the merits of the petitions brought forward, further reflects the continuing maturation of Nigeria’s legal system, and the advancement of Africa’s largest democracy at a time when our democratic system of government is under test in other parts of the continent.
“The President believes the Presidential Candidates and Political Parties that have lawfully exercised their rights by participating in the 2023 general elections and the judicial process which followed, have affirmed Nigeria’s democratic credentials.
The President urges his valiant challengers to inspire their supporters in the trust that the spirit of patriotism will now and forever be elevated above partisan considerations, manifesting into support for our Government to improve the livelihood of all Nigerians.
Once more, President Tinubu thanks Nigerians for the mandate given to him to serve our country while promising to meet and exceed their expectations, by the grace of God Almighty, and through very diligent hard work with the team that has been put in place for that sole purpose.