President Muhammadu Buhari , on Monday , said that elections need not be a do – or – die affair .
He said this in his New Year message to Nigerians . In the message, Buhari reiterated his commitment to free, fair and credible elections .
He said , “ Elections need not be do – or -die affair , and we should not approach that eventuality in a democracy with trepidation and mortal fear . Happily, a large number of presidential candidates have committed to peace, and peace we shall have . ”
See his message as shared by the
News Agency of Nigeria :
NEW YEAR MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT MUHAMMADU BUHARI
Dear compatriots ,
It is my utmost pleasure to rejoice with all Nigerians as we enter the year 2019 , which will be a very significant one for our country.
At the turn of every year, we often use the opportunity to look back at the past and forward to the future . To review the outgoing year, its high and low points , successes and failures, and be fully thankful to God .
We Nigerians are a religious people, and we believe that God reigns and rules in the affairs of men. A time like this offers precious opportunity for thanksgiving, stock – taking and reflection on goals and targets set for the receding year, and how much was accomplished . The ones not done can then be rolled over into a new year .
The dawn of a New Year is also a time to look forward. To consider new prospects , unfold our plans , and prepare for landmark dates and events.
2019 will be an election year for us . In about two months, the polls are due , and we will elect leaders into various offices, at national and state levels .
As I welcome you into 2019 , I also reiterate my many promises and declarations that the general elections will be free, fair and credible .
Elections need not be do – or – die affair , and we should not approach that eventuality in a democracy with trepidation and mortal fear . Happily, a large number of presidential candidates have committed to peace , and peace we shall have .
Those who continue to trumpet falsehood and negativity are on their own , fighting a losing battle . The greater number of Nigerians are trusting and believing that we shall deliver on our promises for a level playing field at the polls , and that is what we shall do .
Nigerians desire peace , security , prosperity, inclusiveness and infrastructural development, a nation they can be proud of , a country that can hold its own among the nations .
That is the journey we have embarked on since we came onboard in 2015 , and we are not distracted as we move on . We are resolved to build a country in which the resources are utilized for the benefit of the largest number, and not appropriated by a privileged few in their never – ending quest to satisfy their greed. We are on this mission together , and I assure you of a firm commitment to the ideals of a safe , secure, fair, just and prosperous country.
We have had our challenges : security , economic , political, social . But we are resolved to combat and overcome them all.
I appreciate your support and collaboration in previous years , and look forward to same in 2019 , and beyond , as I hope you will renew the mandate you overwhelmingly gave us in 2015 , for another term .
We are motivated by nothing other than service to motherland , and service without selfishness or personal interest.
I can assure you all that we are making steady and sustainable progress in all areas of national life . Those who are unbiased can see and appreciate the progress the country has made since 2015 .
A New Year provides opportunity for renewal of commitment , and I invite you to rededicate yourselves to the vision of a Nigeria that works for all.
We are moving from potentials to actualization , and it’ s a task to be accomplished by us all; man , woman, young , old , military , civilian , all Nigerians . Please come along , as we journey to the land of our dreams . Happy 2019 .
Thank you and God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria .
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