In a rare show of democratic strength, President Goodluck Jonathan has called his main challenger, Major General Muhamadu Buhari of the All Progressive Congress (APC), to congratulate him on his victory at the March 28 presidential poll.

President Jonathan's call to congratulate Buhari about 5.05 pm yesterday, much before the final results were eventually announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof Attahiru Jega, in the wee hours of this morning, drew applause from major national leaders, who described the president's gesture as quite statesmanly.

In a statement by President Jonathan last night, he expressed appreciation to all Nigerians who participated in the polls and expressed satisfaction that he had expanded the democratic space in the country, wherein a free and fair election could be held.

According to him, “I promised the country free and fair elections. I have kept my word. I have also expanded the space for Nigerians to participate in the democratic process. That is one legacy I will like to see endure”.

He enjoined his supporters who may want to protest the outcome of the poll to refrain from such actions.

“Although some people have expressed mixed feelings about the results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), I urge those who may feel aggrieved to follow due process based on our constitution and our electoral laws, in seeking redress.

“As I have always affirmed, nobody’s ambition is worth the blood of any Nigerian. The unity, stability and progress of our dear country is more important than anything else.

"I congratulate all Nigerians for successfully going through the process of the March 28th general elections with the commendable enthusiasm and commitment that was demonstrated nationwide.
I also commend the security services for their role in ensuring that the elections were mostly peaceful and violence-free.

"To my colleagues in the PDP, I thank you for your support.  Today, the PDP should be celebrating rather than mourning.  We have established a legacy of democratic freedom, transparency, economic growth and free and fair elections.

“For the past 16 years, we have steered the country away from ethnic and regional politics. We created a pan-Nigerian political party and brought home to our people the realities of economic development and social transformation.
“Through patriotism and diligence, we have built the biggest and most patriotic party in Nigerian history. We must stand together as a party and look to the future with renewed optimism," he said.

President Jonathan, who appreciated the opportunity to serve his fatherland at the highest capacity, pledged to continually uphold the tenet of service until his administration ends on May 29. He further confirmed having congratulated Buhari.
“I thank all Nigerians once again for the great opportunity I was given to lead this country and assure you that I will continue to do my best at the helm of national affairs until the end of my tenure.

I have conveyed my personal best wishes to General Muhammadu Buhari.

Confirming Jonathan’s congratulatory call to Buhari, the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the president had exhibited an uncommon courage and exemplary character by accepting defeat in such a swift manner.

President Jonathan’s call has doused the tension and anxiety that had enveloped the land for fear of post-election violence, as many of his avid supporters have also congratulated the president elect.

Leading other African observers, former Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, also visited the presidential villa yesterday to specially commend President Jonathan for the sportsmanly conduct of conceding victory without a fuss.