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Latest update: 19/04/2011
- elections - Goodluck Jonathan - Nigeria
Opposition candidate condemns post-election violence
The runner-up in Nigeria’s presidential election, Muhammadu Buhari, has condemned the deadly riots that erupted in the north of the country following the victory of President Goodluck Jonathan (pictured).
AFP - The main opposition candidate in Nigeria's presidential election, Muhammadu Buhari, on Tuesday condemned deadly post-poll rioting sparked by incumbent Goodluck Jonathan's victory.
"It's unfortunate to learn of the eruption of violence in some parts of the north following the declaration of election results, where churches and Christians were attacked," Buhari told the BBC's Hausa-language service.
"I disassociate myself and my party from what happened. I contested elections in 2003 and 2007, but I never resorted to violence. I have no reason to do so this time around. I urge people to remain calm and law-abiding."
Jonathan was declared winner on Monday of the landmark vote that exposed regional tensions and led to the deadly rioting.
Jonathan, the first president from the southern oil-producing Niger Delta region, won 57 percent of the vote in Africa's most populous nation, easily beating Buhari, his northern rival who had 31 percent.
Buhari, a former military ruler, did not comment on the results themselves in his brief comments to the BBC. He had not spoken publicly since the announcement of the results, though his party has rejected them.
Hausa is the language spoken in many parts of Nigeria's north.
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Comments (2)
Post Electoral Violence in N-Nigeria
I think Buhari M. merits a doff of the hat. But let his interview to BBC'S Hausa correspondent do not be a cover up. Let him invite his northern brothers and partisans to leave God's people alone. Christians are highly moral and as one i believe attacking churches and burning or inflicting violent acts on christians will not be a solution. Jonathan has won the elections 'free and fair'. Contesting electoral result is not violating the law. Mr Buhari, you are challenged to hold onto the good democratical image you long potray and not fall in the likes of L. Gbagbo vs A. Ouatarra. Nigeria, Africa's greatest should maintain her leading role by setting the pace for peace , equality and democracy in principle and practice. Bravo Mr Buhari.
Congrats Goodluck
let them relieve their anger, as they will soon realise that not everything remains in place forever. Its a bit difficult to accept change. Its for Zimbabwe also very soon. Congratulations Goodluck!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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