Engel Statement on Nigeria Elections

Statement

Representative Eliot L. Engel, the leading Democrat on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on the presidential elections in Nigeria:

"I want to congratulate President-elect Muhammadu Buhari on his victory, and the people of Nigeria on these historic elections. I also want to commend President Jonathan for taking the important step of graciously and swiftly handing power to his opponent, which will set the tone for a peaceful transition.

"I encourage all parties to allow a peaceful political transition to go forward in the coming weeks.

"This is the first time that political power has transferred from one party to another in Nigeria. That's a big step forward for democracy in Africa's most populous country. Today, Nigeria sets a strong example for other countries across the continent that are facing close and contentious elections."

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