Guber polls: Tinubu denounces electoral fraud and arson

During Saturday’s gubernatorial elections, Bola Tinubu, the president-elect, denounced instances of electoral fraud and arson that had been reported in various states.

In a statement he personally signed on Tuesday, Tinubu further urged Nigerians to accept the results of the election in good faith and refrain from taking any actions that might damage their country’s democracy.

The complete text of the message is as follows: “With the end of the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections, I congratulate all the elected governors and assembly members for deserving their electors’ support. The 2023 election cycle came to a fitting conclusion with the March 18 state legislature and 28 gubernatorial elections.

“I must commend President Muhammadu Buhari, the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, Observation Groups, Civil Society Organizations, development partners, and the voters for the success of the polls. The election is crucial to the development and maintenance of democracy and democratic government at the state level.

“More growth and a higher standard of living for the general public would result from the consolidation of democratic government at the subnational level. More of our people will profit from the benefits of democracy and sound governance as we firmly establish and solidify the successes of our democratic endeavour across the length and breadth of our nation.

“But, I’m troubled by the reported isolated transgressions during the elections and their immediate aftermath in several states. I strongly disapprove of it. Also, the story of an arson following the release of the gubernatorial results in one state did not accurately reflect who we are as a peaceful people.

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“The verbal and physical abuse inflicted is intolerable and at odds with the democratic ideal.

Elections shouldn’t be sad occasions; rather, they should be a celebration of our democracy’s development and freedom of choice. I find racial insults especially painful since they can lead to unnecessary mischaracterization and have been documented in certain places.

“My appeal is for us to put aside our differences, which are actually small compared to the important threads that link us together as a people, regardless of the circumstances of our births.

“I can witness to the power of our diversity and unity as a former governor of Lagos State. I hope to translate the inclusivity we fostered in Lagos into national administration as your president-elect so that we may all reach our potentials as a country.

“I will prioritise enhancing civic space and preserving individuals’ freedom to express their rights within the confines of the law.

Certainly, the election is finished. The people have cast their votes to choose the governor and state lawmakers who will represent them for the ensuing four years. This is the moment for leadership and government.

In a democracy, the majority would rule, but that majority must not prevent the minority from having their say. We must defend free speech as Democrats. Winners must be gracious, and losers must have a big heart for tolerance and respect for the larger good of the country.

“As the elected, the only way to uphold the faith and trust of the people, as well as the authority granted to us, is to dedicate ourselves to serving the people. To improve the lives of the masses, we must all labour hard and truly. As elected officials, our only duty is to carry the burdens of the people and make sure they live better lives than we promised them during the campaigns.

“We must act quickly to bring the people together, both those who supported us and those who did not. By accepting the adversaries and their followers, we must promote the healing process. The time for politics is over, as I’ve repeatedly said. This is the time for nation-building, a work larger than any one person or segment of society. Every hand, from wherever it may be, needs to be on deck.

“As your President, I’m prepared to collaborate with you all. When we come together in unity of purpose and fresh optimism for the advancement of our wonderful nation and our dearly loved people, I will be a trustworthy partner you can rely on.