Former Nigerian vice president and presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Atiku Abubakar, has conceded victory to his rival for the APC presidential ticket, Muhammadu Buhari, saying the retired general deserved to win the APC presidential primaries.
Though there were five candidates vying for the ticket, Atiku and Buhari were seen as the aspirants to beat and either of the two was expected to win the ticket. Analysts predicted that a close fight between them.
Other aspirants were the publisher of the Leadership newspaper, Sam Nda-Isaiah, the current governors of Kano and Imo states, Rabiu Kwankwaso and Rochas Okorocha respectively.
Buhari polled a total of 3, 430 votes. Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso came a distant second with 974 votes while Atiku Abubabakar got while 954 out of total votes of 7214. Governor Rochas Okorocha came fourth after polling 624. Sam Nda-Isaiah managed to poll 10 votes.
A total of 16 votes were declared void.
Atiku said he had no problems with the outcomes of the primaries, declaring that the delegates had ‘spoken’ through their votes.
He said, “I heartily congratulate Gen. Muhammadu Buhari for emerging victorious in this keenly contested presidential primary election of our great Party, the APC. You ran a spirited campaign, and since the delegates have spoken, you fully deserve the victory.
“I am very confident that you will provide the needed leadership to turn this country around. I have no doubt that you will work with dedicated and qualified Nigerians to protect our citizens, improve our economy, create jobs, improve education, reform governance and fight corruption. You will indeed bring the change Nigerians have been yearning for. Once more, congratulations.”
Further, Atiku expressed confidence in the leadership of the APC. he said the party had provide a level playing field for all the presidential aspirants.
“The APC has demonstrated, through the transparent process, the Party’s commitment to democracy and rule of law. It has demonstrated its respect for people and their choice through the ballot box.
“I sincerely thank the Convention Committee for putting together a hitch-free convention.”
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