AU Congratulates Tinubu on Nigerian Presidential Poll Win

ADDIS ABABA – The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat on Friday congratulated Bola Tinubu on his victory in Nigeria’s Feb. 25 presidential election.

Tinubu, 70, of the ruling All Progressives Congress party (APC) was declared the winner of the presidential election by the Independent National Electoral Commission on Wednesday.

After the results were made official, AUC Chairperson Mahamat “warmly congratulates” Tinubu for being proclaimed winner of the presidential elections, and the people of Nigeria “for demonstrating resilience in their commitment to democratic values by casting their votes for the leaders of their choice.”

Reports say many Nigerians have raised concerns after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) decided to manually transmit results, opting against using an existing instant transmission system.

The main opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it would challenge the results in court.

“In this regard, the Chairperson urges all stakeholders to uphold peace and the rule of law, and further urges that any post-election dispute or grievance be pursued through the judicial system, as provided for by the law,” the AU said.

The President-elect also appealed for unity in the west African country, saying the divisions that characterized the poll should not linger into the post-election period.

“There are divisions amongst us that should not exist. Many people are uncertain, angry, and hurt. I reach out to every one of you. Let the better aspects of our humanity step forward at this fateful moment. Let us begin to heal and bring calm to our nation,” he urged.

Tinubu will succeed outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari, whose administration has been marked by security threats and economic crunches.

Featured Image: Nigeria’s President-elect Bola Tinubu appealed for unity in the country on Wednesday. (Photo Credit Anadolu Agency)