Obasanjo and Babangida hail Buhari’s victory in Unique ways

Former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida yesterday described the triumph of General Muhammadu Buhari in the presidential poll as a reward for the latter’s perseverance and industry.

Congratulating Buhari, Babangida said: “This victory to me conveys two significant statements on our political history and evolution. First, that incumbents can be defeated in any democratic process if the people’s aspirations are not fulfilled. Second, that there is good reward for perseverance and hard work.”
Buhari’s success at the poll after several failed attempts, he said, evoked memories of the feat achieved by Abraham Lincoln of the United States.
His words: “General Buhari has been consistent in pursuing his political aspiration. In fact, he reminds me of President Abraham Lincoln of the American fame, who was very dogged in pursuing his political aspiration and enriched the contents of democracy in America. General Buhari lives true to his military calling by remaining very consistent, resilient and courageous right from 2003 till date. The enviable feat, to me, further enriches our democratic process and matures us into the top echelon of nations where democracy has taken firm root.”
Babangida said he expected the president-elect to “live up to the expectations of many Nigerians that crave for change; and lift Nigeria to greater heights.”
Buhari’s victory, he said, had pulled down the barriers of ethnicity and religious inclinations.
He added: “I wish to implore the president-elect to reach out to other contestants in the spirit of one Nigeria as he settles down for the task of leading this nation in the next for years.”
He, however, commended President Goodluck Jonathan for conceding defeat, describing the development as “cheering news”.
Hailing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for “conducting such a free, fair and transparent election despite all the initial hitches and challenges.”
Also, in a letter sent to General Buhari, former president Olusegun Obasanjo said: “Your  success  and  victory  after  three  previous  unsuccessful attempts must be great lessons for you and for all politicians, particularly in Nigeria. I felicitate with you and wish you well.”