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The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has congratulated former military leader, General Muhammadu Buhari for coming up victorious in the Nigerian presidential elections.

It noted the peaceful manner in which the elections were conducted and hailed the people of Nigeria on the great achievement.

A statement signed by ECOWAS chairman, President John Dramani Mahama, also noted the statesmanship and leadership demonstrated by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for accepting the results and calling the winner to congratulate him.

Again, ECOWAS recognised the laudable role played by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) particularly its chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, in the successful conduct of the elections.

Nigerian people
The entire people of Nigeria received praise from ECOWAS.

"ECOWAS commends the people of Nigeria for the determination and courage demonstrated throughout the period of the elections. This is a clear indication of the collective commitment of the Nigerian stakeholders towards strengthening democracy and good governance in line with our community protocols," the statement said.

Following the declaration of the results, ECOWAS urged the political parties and their supporters, the candidates, and the entire people of Nigeria, not accept the verdict.

They should also continue to observe the peace and employ only legal and constitutional means to seek redress for any grievances.