President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday in his Independence Day message said he is a firm believer in transparent, free, fair and credible elections, and that he has demonstrated this in the course of his administration.
He said the process leading to the Edo election and its outcome should be an encouragement to Nigerians that he is committed to ensuring that the electorate’s votes count.
Noting that electoral problems are caused by desperation and personal interest, the president asked all citizens to support the rule of law by avoiding actions that compromise the judiciary.
“The recent build-up and eventual outcome of the Edo State elections should encourage Nigerians that it is my commitment to bequeath to this country processes and procedures that would guarantee that the people’s votes count,” he said.
“The problems with our electoral process are mainly human-induced as desperate desire for power leads to desperate attempts to gain power and office.
“Democracy, the world over and as I am pursuing in Nigeria, recognizes the power of the people. However, if some constituencies choose to bargain off their power, they should be prepared for denial of their rights.
Buhari also called for a sincere process of national healing as Nigeria marks the 60th anniversary.
Meanwhile, in another recent development security operatives have dispersed #RevolutionNow protesters in Osogbo, capital of Osun State.
The protesters, who converged on Nelson Mandela Park, Old Garage around 9 am, were dispersed almost immediately.
However, they regrouped at Oke-Fia junction and later marched through Old Garage, Orisunbare and Ola-Iya junction, chanting anti-government songs and distributing flyers stating reasons for their agitations
