An official of National Electoral Commission (CENA) counts votes after the second round of the presidential election in Cotonou, on March 20, 2016. Benin began voting today in the deciding second round of its presidential election, with Prime Minister Lionel Zinsou taking on businessman Patrice Talon for the tiny west African country’s top job. / AFP / PIUS UTOMI EKPEI
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President Muhammadu Buhari congratulated on Monday the President-elect of Benin Republic, Mr Patrice Talon, on his electoral victory in the presidential run-off on Sunday, March 20, as announced by the Autonomous National Electoral Commission.
Mr. Buhari also commended the Government and people of Benin Republic on the peaceful and orderly conduct of the presidential elections.
He saluted the courage and statesmanship of Prime Minister Lionel Zinsou and presidential candidate of the ruling coalition, in upholding the democratic process by promptly congratulating his main challenger, Mr Talon, on his electoral victory.
“The President also commends President Boni Yayi for his leadership throughout the electoral process and for his invaluable contribution to democratic governance in the sub-region, evidently demonstrated in the successful conduct of the presidential elections.
“The President is encouraged by the determination and exemplary conduct demonstrated by Beninese in coming out en masse to perform their civic duties.
“President Buhari believes that the successful conclusion of the electoral process marks an important step in consolidating democracy in the sub-region and a beacon for other African countries to emulate.
“The President trusts that the Beninese will give the incoming government all the necessary support to succeed and reaffirms that Nigeria, as a beneficiary of the dividends of democracy, will continue to build strong partnerships with her neighbours for the peace, progress and prosperity of our citizens,” the presidency in Nigeria said in a statement by spokesman Femi Adesina.
