Nigeria’s Senate President, David Mark, on Tuesday, April 14, 2015 stated that President Goodluck Jonathan’s decision to concede defeat in the 2015 Presidential election averted a seemingly inevitable crisis in the country.
Mark made the remarks while welcoming members of the Senate back to the chamber after the Easter break, which was extended as a result of the 2015 general elections.
The Senate President went on to urge all politicians to borrow a leaf from President Jonathan, stating that his actions added value to the consolidation of democracy in the country.
He further hailed the Nigerian electorate, saying: “We have proved to the world that Nigeria has laid a solid foundation for democracy to thrive.” and “have greatly disappointed doomsday prophets who predicted disaster and even a possible break up of our country.”
Mark added: “I consider it imperative at this point to share my thought with you. The beauty of every contest is in participating. Sometimes we win and sometimes we lose. It is the same with every election.
“Whichever way it goes, as long as it reflects the wishes of the people and it is in the best interest of Nigeria and Nigerians, we must learn to accept the outcome in good faith.
“In this regard, I would like to commend the maturity and sportsmanship displayed by President Goodluck Jonathan, who willingly conceded defeat and immediately congratulated the President-Elect, Gen Muhammadu Buhari, even before the Independent National Electoral Commission announced the result.”
