The 2023 Election Proves Nigerian Voter Vibrancy And Maturity - President Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari claimed that the 2023 general elections shown that Nigerians can choose their leaders without being told what to do.
President Buhari, in a statement released by his media aide, Garba Shehu, expressed satisfaction with the remarkable passion for democracy displayed by Nigerians through their choices in the Presidential, National Assembly, and subsequent Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections, saying Nigeria's democracy has truly matured.
“People are realising their power. Given the chance of a free and fair vote, nobody can tell them what to do. I am unhappy that some candidates lost in the election. But I am inspired by the fact that voters were able to make their own decision, to decide who won and who lost.
With the currency change, there was no money to spread around but even then, I told voters to take the money and vote according to their consciences.”
President Buhari, addressing during a goodbye meeting with outgoing US Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard at the State House in Abuja, said he was entirely happy with his involvement in the electoral process, which he claimed was above it, without meddling or influence.
The President praised the departed Ambassador for the significant achievements she has made in Nigeria-US relations during her three-and-a-half years here.
He described a variety of problems that Nigeria has as it works to unify our varied communities and achieve national progress, and he expressed admiration for the way the United States is able to stick together as a nation.
He expressed hope that Nigeria will continue to make strides toward forming a country out of our diverse and competing communities. He also said how much he liked working with the Ambassador and how he hoped she had more time to serve here.
In response to a query from Ambassador Leonard, President Buhari stated that he intended to be a "huge landlord" back home, working his fields and caring for his more than 300 livestock. "I am excited to go," the President stated.
