President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated Godwin Obaseki, Governor of Edo state for coming out victorious in the Edo governorship poll.
OnyxNews Nigeria earlier reported that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Obaseki winner of the September 19 governorship election on Sunday.
Incumbent Governor Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), secured 307,955 votes, while Osagie Ize-Iyamu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) polled 223,619 votes.
Governor Obaseki won in 13 local government areas (LGAs) to defeat Ize-Iyamu, who won in five.
Reacting to his win in a statement issued on Sunday by Garba Shehu, presidential spokesman, Buhari said he is committed to free and fair elections because it is the bedrock of true democracy.
He also urged Obaseki to celebrate in humility.
“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,” Buhari said.
“I have consistently advocated for free and fair elections in the country because it is the bedrock of true democracy.
“Democracy will mean nothing if the votes of the people don’t count or if their mandate is fraudulently tampered with.”
The president also commended the people of Edo state, the parties, candidates and security agencies for conducting themselves during the election.
By November, Obaseki will be sworn in for another tenure in office.
