THE national leadership of the All Progressives Congress and the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party  in the November 18 poll in Anambra State, Mr. Oseloka Obaze, have accepted the outcome of the election.

Consequently, they have congratulated Governor Willie Obiano, who has been declared the winner of the election.

The APC in a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, also congratulated the party’s candidate, Dr. Tony Nwoye, for his impressive performance at the election and his graciousness in conceding defeat.

The party said, “We commend the Independent National Electoral Commission for conducting what is regarded as a credible election, which passes the integrity test.

“Similarly, we praise the high level of dedication and professionalism displayed by the security agencies and other ad-hoc members of staff mobilised for the election.”

“As a party, we believe the smooth conduct of the election, irrespective of its outcome, is a testimony to our party and President Muhammadu Buhari’s commitment to free, fair and transparent polls.

“We appeal to other candidates and parties who participated in the election to accept its outcome as a true reflection of the will of the Anambra people.”

Obaze, who said he would not contest the outcome of the election, congratulated Obiano and his deputy, Dr Nkem Okeke.

He said, “I salute my other fellow contestants for their valiant efforts and the decorum during campaigning. Thank you for promoting peace.

“Before now, I had expressed concerns about the contradicting variables that led to the electoral outcome. In that contest, INEC needs to undertake an introspective reappraisal of its in-house processes; more so, those relating to its ICT operations.

“Beyond these remarks, I have closed the chapter on this particular election. We must now move on and return to the task of promoting good governance and well-being of the Anambra people.”

He added, “I thank in a very special way former Governor Peter Obi and his dear wife, Margaret, for their unfettered support. I also thank my running mate, Lady Chidi Onyemelukwe, and her husband, Okey Onyemelukwe for their joint role and warmth that  added value to our efforts.”

Meanwhile, the President General of Ndigbo apex organisation, Ohanaeze, Chief John Nwodo, has charged Obiano to be magnanimous in victory, put campaign rhetoric behind him and extend the hand of fellowship to his opponents.

Ohanaeze boss in a congratulatory message to the governor on his victory also saluted the opponents for what he described as a healthy and competitive encounter.

Nwodo, in a statement in Abuja on Monday,  said that the fact that all the people of Anambra State came out to vote was also commendable.    –    Punch

– Nov 21, 2017 @ 08:35 GMT |