In his inaugural speech today at the Eagles Square in Abuja after he was sworn-in as the 16th President of Nigeria, Tinubu said he will only govern on behalf of the Nigerian populace and never to rule over them.
“Our administration will govern you only on your behalf, but never rule over you. We shall consult and dialogue but never dictate.
“We shall reach out to all, but never put down a single person for holding views contrary to our own.
“We are here to further better and heal this nation, and not tear and injure it”, he said.
Reflecting on the election that brought him into power, the newly sworn-in president stated that the outcome of the election was a reflection of the will of the people, noting that it was fairly won.
“It was a hard fought contest and was also fairly won. Since the advent of the 4th Republic, Nigeria has not had an election of a better quality as this.
“However, my victory does not render me any more Nigerian than my opponents nor does it render them any less patriotic. They shall forever be my fellow compatriots and I will treat them as such.
“They represent important constituencies and concerns that we dare not ignore. Some have taken their concerns to the court seeking legal redress. That is their right, and I fully acknowledge the exercise of their right. This is the essence of the rule of law”, president Tinubu added.
While calling on the people to support the “Nigeria Ideal”, the former Lagos State governor said, “To my supporters, I thank you. To those who didn’t vote for me, I thank you as well. I set my hands across political divides, and I ask you to grasps the national affinity. For me, political colouration has faded away. All see here are Nigerians, all of you.
“My fellow citizens, the Nigeria ideal which I speak of is more than just an improvement in economics and statistics. These things are important, but they can never confirm the fullness of our story. Our mission is to improve our ways of life in a manner that nurtures us to our humanity.
“Our constitution gave us a nation on paper. We must work hard at bringing this noble document to life by strengthening the bonds of economic collaboration, social cohesion and cultural understanding.
“Let us develop a shear sense of fairness and equality. South must not only seek good for itself, but must understand that interest is served when good comes to the North. North must not see the South likewise.
“Whether from the widen creeks of Niger Delta, the fatness of the Northern Savannah, the boardroom of Lagos, the bustling capital of Abuja or from the busy market of Onitsha, you are all my people.
“As your president I shall serve with prejudice towards none, but compassion and amity towards all”, he concluded.
