Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said the triumph of Governor Godwin Obaseki at the just concluded Edo guber poll has demonstrated that Nigerians value the present democracy and would continue to salvage it.
Obasanjo said the outcome of the election, was a proof that the people of the state valued Obaseki’s leadership and appreciated his efforts and contributions to governance in the state.
The former President in a congratulatory message sent to the re-elected Governor, however, urged him to reciprocate people’s rust by doing everything to strengthen people’s faith in democracy and in its ability to bring about improved material conditions and better service delivery.
He also urged the governor Obaseki to be magnanimous in victory as it was charitable and would cool passions in the wider interest of the state and country.
Obasanjo said, “Your success at the polls after a hard fought campaign and keenly contested election is proof that the people of your State value your leadership and appreciate the efforts you have made thus far on their behalf.
“You will agree with me, no doubt, that the outcome of the elections that have taken place so far broadly reflects the choice of the Nigerians who have, by their conduct, visibly demonstrated that they value our present democracy and will do their utmost to make it work.
“I urge you, therefore, to reciprocate their trust by doing everything you can to strengthen their faith in democracy and in its ability to bring about improved material conditions and better service delivery.
“I also count on your support of well-meaning Nigerians like me in our quest for national peace, stability and economic development and trust that you will play an active and visible role in our pursuit of these noble and desirable objectives.
“You have fought and won the elections and deserve to savour the victory despite all the odds and challenges posed by opposition.
“As you rejoice, however, I would urge that you should be magnanimous in victory and stretch a hand of fellowship to the other candidates who failed in their bid for the elected office.
“Such a gesture is not only charitable but should also help at this time to cool passions in the wider interest of the nation and your State. You are now, as before, Governor of Edo State and not Governor of only those who voted for you in Edo State.”
