Abah Joshua
Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex Igbo socio-cultural organization has extended its heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the verdict delivered by the Rt Justice John Okoro-led Seven Man Panel of the Supreme Court.
Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, the Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in a aaof statement congratulates President Tinubu on his victory and urged him to exhibit magnanimity in victory.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo called upon Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to emulate the historic gestures displayed by former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015 and congratulate him.
“The apex court, in its wisdom, has upheld the victory of President Tinubu as the authentic and rightful winner of the 2023 February 25th Presidential elections.
“This momentous development marks the official end of the electoral process for the 2023 elections. Ohanaeze Ndigbo commends the Supreme Court for its diligent review of the petitions filed by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the Labour Party candidate, Mr. Peter Obi. The verdict of the Supreme Court brings finality and closure to the electoral disputes.
“We urge them to reach out to their main political opponent in the 2023 election, President Tinubu, and extend their congratulations on his victory in the Supreme Court. Such an act of sportsmanship and statesmanship will not only demonstrate their commitment to the democratic process but also send a powerful message to their supporters to end any perceived acrimonious vendetta that may have arisen during the 2023 elections.
“Nigerians are keenly watching Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, expecting them to openly congratulate President Tinubu. It is a significant opportunity for them to promote unity, reconciliation, and the spirit of nation-building. Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly believes that by extending hands of friendship and embracing their opponents, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi can contribute to healing the perceived divisions that have emerged across political parties.
“We implore President Tinubu to reach out to Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi in the spirit of sportsmanship, offering the hand of friendship and unity. By fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and collaboration, President Tinubu can set a positive precedent for national cohesion and progress.
“Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls upon the diaspora chapter of NADECO (National Democratic Coalition) to halt any plans that may perpetuate division and animosity towards President Tinubu. We must prioritize the collective interest of the nation and work together towards building a united and prosperous Nigeria.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains committed to the promotion of the welfare and interests of the Igbo people and all Nigerians. We commend the Supreme Court’s verdict, which provides a foundation for the consolidation of our democratic ideals. Let us seize this moment to unite as a nation and work towards a brighter future under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, he said.