Dr. Kayode Fayemi, the immediate-past Governor of Ekiti State and former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, has extended his congratulations to Ghana’s President-elect, John Dramani Mahama, on his recent electoral victory.
In a statement issued by the Head of his Media Office, Mallam Ahmad Sajoh, in Abuja, Fayemi lauded the democratic ethos demonstrated in Ghana’s general elections.
He commended Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the presidential candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for his statesmanship in conceding defeat and prioritizing peace and national unity.
Describing Ghana as a model of democracy in Africa, Fayemi emphasized the significance of respecting the people’s will and upholding democratic principles.
“As a friend to both men and a committed advocate of democratic principles across Africa, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to President-elect John Dramani Mahama on his resounding victory. This triumph underscores the trust and confidence the people of Ghana have in his leadership and vision,” Fayemi stated.
He also praised Dr Bawumia for his gracious concession speech, noting that his acceptance of the electoral outcome in the spirit of peace and national unity exemplifies the very best of African political leadership.
Fayemi added that Dr Bawumia’s decision to place Ghana’s interests above personal ambition reinforces the values of democracy and sets a benchmark for political actors across the continent.
The Former Ekiti State Governor, highlighted the broader lessons from Ghana’s electoral process, stressing the need for African nations to emulate its democratic model.
“The supremacy of the people’s will is the cornerstone of democracy. Ghana has demonstrated that democracy can thrive in Africa when institutions function independently and political actors prioritize the collective good over individual aspirations,” he said.
Fayemi urged political actors across the continent to draw inspiration from the conduct of Mahama and Bawumia, which, he said, had deepened Ghana’s democratic culture and solidified its position as a beacon of hope and a model for the rest of Africa.
“As Nigeria and other African nations continue to strengthen their democratic foundations, Ghana’s experience provides a blueprint for conducting credible, peaceful elections reflective of the people’s choice,” Fayemi added.
He reiterated his hope that African leaders would embrace the Ghanaian example to foster democratic progress and stability across the continent.
