In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has reaffirmed the election victory of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, delivering a decisive verdict on the petitions filed by the candidates of the Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The verdict, delivered by Justice John I. Okoro-led Panel, firmly upholds the democratic process and reinforces the strength of our constitutional democracy.
President Tinubu, in his address to the nation, expressed his deep appreciation for the Supreme Court’s meticulous consideration of the petitions, highlighting that the decision reflects a commitment to justice, untainted by external influence.
“While the verdict of today has laid to rest the agitating discourse over who truly won the 2023 Presidential election and met the constitutional requirements as laid out by law, I want to reiterate that my faith in our nation’s judiciary has never been shaken, not even for a moment, because I know that our hallowed courts of law will not fail to administer justice to all Nigerians in all matters and at all times,” President Tinubu stated.
The President emphasized the judiciary’s unwavering dedication to upholding the rule of law, even in the face of significant pressure and attempts at intimidation by some political actors. He hailed the affirmation of the All Progressives’ Congress (APC) victory, reiterating that it was a testament to the collective choice of the Nigerian people.
“With deep gratitude to God Almighty, I solemnly and humbly accept today’s judicial victory with an intense sense of responsibility and a burning desire to meet the great challenges confronting our people,” President Tinubu asserted.
President Tinubu’s speech resonated with a call for unity and collaboration among all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliations, tribes, or faiths. He expressed an unwavering commitment to serving the diverse opinions and uniting values of the citizens.
“Our Renewed Hope agenda for a greater and prosperous Nigeria has further gained momentum, and I will continue to work from morning to night, every single day, to build a country that meets our collective yearnings and aspirations,” President Tinubu affirmed.
In closing, President Tinubu extended his gratitude to all Nigerians for entrusting him with the mandate to lead the nation. He pledged to surpass expectations in service delivery and good governance, while inviting all citizens to contribute to the collective progress of Nigeria.
The Supreme Court’s verdict and President Tinubu’s resolute address mark a significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, setting the stage for renewed focus on national development and unity.
Original Speech by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
STATEMENT BY H.E. PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR
IT IS TIME FOR US TO BUILD OUR GREAT NATION TOGETHER
I welcome the verdict of the Justice John I. Okoro-led Panel of the Supreme Court on the Presidential Election petitions filed by the candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party, challenging the ruling of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal.
The court has done justice to all issues put up for consideration in the petitions on the merits of the law, without fear or favour.
There is no doubt, with the profound judgment of today, that our electoral jurisprudence and constitutional democracy are further consolidated and embedded more indelibly in our national identity because of the diligence and undaunted professionalism of the Honourable Justices who presided over the matter.
While the verdict of today has laid to rest the agitating discourse over who truly won the 2023 Presidential election and met the constitutional requirements as laid out by law, I want to reiterate that my faith in our nation’s judiciary has never been shaken, not even for a moment, because I know that our hallowed courts of law will not fail to administer justice to all Nigerians in all matters and at all times. Despite the fusillade of pressure and attempts at intimidation by some political actors, the judiciary demonstrated its unequivocal commitment to upholding the rule of law for the upliftment and defense of humanity.
It was affirmed once more today, that my party, the governing All Progressives’ Congress, had freely and fairly won the popular mandate of Nigerians, which has since given rise to my leadership of this great nation at a tumultuous period of unprecedented reforms in our history as a nation.
With deep gratitude to God Almighty, I solemnly and humbly accept today’s judicial victory with an intense sense of responsibility and a burning desire to meet the great challenges confronting our people.
The victory of today has further energized and strengthened my commitment to continue to serve all Nigerians of all political persuasions, tribes, and faiths, with honor and total respect for the diverse opinions and uniting values of our citizens.
Our Renewed Hope agenda for a greater and prosperous Nigeria has further gained momentum, and I will continue to work from morning to night, every single day, to build a country that meets our collective yearnings and aspirations.
We are all members of one household, and this moment demands that we continue to work and build our country together. The strength of our diversity and the great citizenship that binds us must now compel us forward in directing the energy of our people towards building a virile, stronger, united, and more prosperous country.
In the days and months ahead, I trust that the spirit of patriotism will be elevated into supporting our administration to improve the living conditions of Nigerians. I am prepared to welcome the contributions of all Nigerians to foster and strengthen our collective progress.
I send my immense gratitude to all Nigerians for the mandate to serve our country. I promise again to meet and exceed your expectations in service delivery and good governance, working with my team and trusting in the grace of God.
May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu President and Commander-in-Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria October 26, 2023
