By Olusegun Olanrewaju
Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his victory at the Supreme Court, which upheld his election as the winner of the 2023 presidential election.
In a statement by its Secretary-General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, Ohanaeze also called on the presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, and Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, respectively to emulate former President Goodluck Jonathan by congratulating President Tinubu on his victory.
“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,” the statement said.
It added, “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.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo also urged President Tinubu to exhibit magnanimity in victory and reach out to Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi in the spirit of sportsmanship.
“By fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and collaboration, President Tinubu can set a positive precedent for national cohesion and progress,” the statement said.
The organisation also commended the Supreme Court for its verdict, which it said provides a foundation for the consolidation of Nigeria’s democratic ideals.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains committed to the promotion of the welfare and interests of the Igbo people and all Nigerians,” the statement said. “Let us seize this moment to unite as a nation and work towards a brighter future under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
Early in the day, the Supreme Court dismissed all petitions filed against the election of Bola Tinubu as president, upholding his victory in the February 25th election.
The court held that the petitioners, Atiku and Obi, failed to prove their allegations of electoral irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act.
