Ban Ki-Moon Reacts To Nigeria's Presidential Election

The UN Secretary-General, Ban Ki-Moon, says the way the presidential
election in Nigeria was conducted is "a testament" to Nigeria's
"democratic spirit".

Mr. Ban Ki-Moon also commended President Goodluck Jonathan for "his
statesmanship in upholding the democratic process".

He applauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for
organising the elections in a professional and credible "manner under
challenging circumstances".

The UN Chief then called on all Nigerians to accept the outcome of the
elections.

He expressed hope that the same democratic spirit would prevail in the
conduct of the governorship and state houses of assembly elections on
April 11.

General Muhammadu Buhari was declared the winner of the Presidential
electionin the early hours of Wednesday and has received his
Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral
Commission (INEC).

He defeated Nigeria's incumbent President, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, by
over 2 million votes, in a keenly contested election which held on
Saturday, March 28, 2015.

This is the first time an opposition party is winning the presidential
election in Nigeria.

Before handing over the certificate to General Buhari, the Chairman of
INEC, Professor Attahiru Jega, pledged that the commission would
continue to do its best, under all circumstances, to ensure free, fair
and credible elections.