The Lamidi Apapa-led faction of the Labour Party has called upon its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and the Peoples Democratic Party’s candidate, Atiku Abubakar, to take a cue from Liberian President George Weah, who gracefully conceded defeat in their just-concluded election.
Citing the recent example of Weah’s sportsmanlike conduct, the LP faction appealed to Obi and Atiku to acknowledge their defeat and extend congratulations to President Bola Tinubu, declared winner of the 2023 presidential election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Earlier reports from MUK TV highlighted Weah’s congratulatory message to his challenger, Joseph Boakai, after being defeated in the West African country’s presidential election.
Boakai, who served as Liberia’s Vice President from 2006 to 2018 under former President Ellen Sirleaf Johnson, secured 50.9 per cent of the votes, emerging victorious against Weah, the 1995 FIFA World Footballer of the Year, who secured 49.1 per cent.
In a statement issued by the factional spokesperson, Abayomi Arabambi, in Abuja on Saturday, the LP highlighted the examples of Weah and Boakai as a testament that elections should not be a “do-or-die” affair and should not be pursued at all costs, Vanguard reports.
Drawing parallels, Arabambi mentioned former President Goodluck Jonathan’s concession in 2015 to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, asserting that Obi and Atiku should follow suit by congratulating Tinubu.
The LP faction urged the former VP and former Anambra governor to unite with Tinubu in revitalizing Nigeria, stating, “The time is ripe for former Vice-President and PDP presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, and former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of LP, Mr. Peter Obi to congratulate President Bola Tinubu after they had explored all the opportunities availed by the Constitution and the Electoral Act.”
The statement further emphasized the importance of fostering unity, rallying behind the current administration, and having faith in ongoing reforms for the country’s betterment.
“The incumbent, who despite losing his second term as President yesterday did not wait for anyone before he congratulated the winner. As a responsible leader, former President Goodluck Jonathan also did the same as George Weah, and today he is being reckoned with as a great pillar of democracy.
Arabambi concluded by advocating for a spirit of sportsmanship and encouraging Nigerian leaders to emulate such conduct for the nation’s progress.
“Labour Party therefore appeals to Obi’ and Atiku to support the administration and have faith in ongoing reforms. We had expected the duo would bury the hatchet and join hands with the President in delivering the Renewed Hope Agenda. Nigerian leaders should emulate this spirit of sportsmanship.”
