By Marcus Ikechukwu
Rauf Aregbesola, minister of interior, has congratulated Bola Tinubu, the president-elect on his victory in the presidential election.
The congratulatory message marks the first time Aregbesola is reacting to the victory of his political godfather after their relationship went sour recently.
His message was contained in a statement in which he talked about Tinubu’s political progression, saying it has been a long and arduous journey, from the Primrose Circle, the senatorial bid and victory, Justice Forum, and June 12 and NADECO struggle, to Sunday Adigun and BATCO governorship struggle and victory.
“The governorship experience and mandate era in Lagos, the resurgence of progressive tendency in Western Nigeria, consolidation of progressive influence in Nigeria were previous achievements and now the Presidency. You deserve every commendation as we equally give glory to God for His mercy,” the statement reads.
Due to their estranged relationship, Arergbesola was not part of Tinubu’s campaign following the latter’s support for Gboyega Oyetola who was defeated at the Osun governorship poll last year.
The minister said that Tinubu’s victory was a call to duty, saying “It is my wish that with the victory comes the consolidation of the eight years of massive infrastructure development and progressive policies of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, deepening of the democratic process and advancement of social democracy, as well as promoting party discipline and guaranteeing of a better life for all”.
Aregbesola said what is equally important is the need to ensure that Nigeria meets her historic responsibility to Africans and the black race as the leader of both entities.
He also congratulated President Muhammadu Buhari and other parties that participated in the election and their candidates for the keen contest and a successful election.
He wished that God gives them good health and the wisdom needed for a successful tenure in office.
