President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, on his re-election during the governorship election held on Saturday.
Obaseki, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, defeated Osagie Ize-Iyamu of Buhari’s All Progressives Congress at the poll.
A statement by Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President, Garba Shehu, said Buhari commended the electoral process that resulted in the Independent National Electoral Commission declaring Obaseki winner.
In the statement titled “President Buhari commends election process in Edo State reiterates commitment to free and fair elections,” the presidential spokesman quoted Buhari as reiterating his commitment to credible elections.
In congratulating Obaseki, the President was further quoted as urging him to “show grace and humility in victory.”
Buhari said, “My commitment to free and fair elections is firm, because, without free and fair elections, the foundation of our political and moral authority will be weak.
“I have consistently advocated for free and fair elections in the country because it is the bedrock of true democratic order.
“Democracy will mean nothing if the votes of the people don’t count or if their mandate is fraudulently tampered with.”
He commended the people the state, the political parties, candidates, and security agencies for conducting themselves responsibly.