Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has congratulated Gen. Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) for emerging victorious in the keenly contested presidential primary election of the All Progressives Congress.
Atiku, in a concession statement by his media office in Lagos on Thursday, said that Buhari ran a spirited campaign, and that since the delegates have spoken, he fully deserves the victory.
The statement reads, “I am very confident that you will provide the needed leadership to turn this country around.
“I have no doubt that you will work with dedicated and qualified Nigerians to protect our citizens, improve our economy, create jobs, improve education, reform governance and fight corruption.
“You will indeed bring the change Nigerians have been yearning for once more, congratulations.
“I congratulate the other contestants, namely Governors Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Rochas Okorocha as well as the erudite Sam Nda-Isaiah. You have all demonstrated your commitment to democracy by participating in this transparent process and by campaigning vigorously across this country.”
He thanked delegates for their sacrifices and their commitment to democracy.
In particular, he said he thanked those who voted for him for their faith in him.
He called on his supporters to support Buhari.
He said, “However, since we came up short, we have to now rally behind Buhari to help him prevail in the coming Presidential election.
“The APC has demonstrated, through the transparent process, the party’s commitment to democracy and rule of law. It has demonstrated its respect for people and their choice through the ballot box.
“I sincerely thank the Convention Committee for putting together a hitch-free convention.
“My dear friends, we have voted, a winner has emerged. I pledge my commitment to this Party, and to campaign vigorously for our candidate, Gen. Muhammadu Buhari and all APC candidates to ensure victory in the 2015 elections.
“I call on all other contestants and our party’s rank and file to unite behind our candidates at all levels to ensure that the PDP is defeated, so Nigerians can have real change.”
Atiku said he will hand over to Buhari his review and possible implementation of his policy document which he said was developed in line with the party’s philosophy.
 for emerging victorious in the keenly contested presidential primary election of the All Progressives Congress.){kind=link}