South African Government Congratulates Nigeria President-elect Goodluck Jonathan

The South African government has noted the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria in which it has announced that President Goodluck Jonathan has won the Presidential elections held on 16 April 2011.

The South African government wishes to extend its sincere congratulations to President Jonathan and wishes to reaffirm its desire to further enhance its strong relations with President Jonathan and his government as well as with the people of Nigeria. The South African government also wishes to extend its appreciation and respect to all the candidates who participated in the elections, as well as to the sterling work carried out by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria and all the institutions and volunteers who have contributed to the success in holding the biggest democratic elections on our Continent.

South Africa has also taken note of the statements issued by Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Election Observation Mission in Nigeria, as well as the Commonwealth Observers, led by the former President of Botswana, President Festus Mogae, both of which organisations stated that the election meets the criteria of being free, transparent and credible elections.

The South African Government echoes the statement by the Ecowas Observer Mission and the Commonwealth Observers and reiterates its congratulations to the people of Nigeria for exercising their democratic right in a responsible manner.

The South African Government has taken note of some incidents of discontent, leading to the loss of life and destruction of property. It wishes to implore all parties and voters to accept the outcome of the elections and, if necessary to utilise the legitimate channels to express their grievances.  

For further information contact the DIRCO Spokesperson, Mr Clayson Monyela, on 082 884 5974.

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation

OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria

20 April 2011