Nigerian President congratulates Mugabe

Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has congratulated President Robert Mugabe on his victory in last week’s elections but called on Mugabe to ensure that all those who oppose the conduct of the polls and the results are given an opportunity to seek lawful redress.

A statement issued by Jonathan’s spokesman said that the Nigerian president enjoined Mugabe and his Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front to rededicate themselves to working for the well-being and progress of all Zimbabweans.

“The President also calls on President Mugabe to ensure that all persons and parties who oppose the conduct of the polls and the announced results are given every opportunity to seek lawful redress as allowed by the country’s electoral laws and constitution.

“He welcomes the decision of the main opposition leader, Mr. Morgan Tsvangirai to avail himself of these avenues of peaceful and legal redress instead of resorting to unlawful actions that could lead Zimbabwe down the road of political instability again” the statement said.

Jonathan joins South African President Jacob Zuma, Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, and Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete in congratulating Mugabe, meaning that three of Africa’s economic giants have endorsed Mugabe.

Only Botswana, so far, has challenged the result and says there must be an audit of the results.

Mugabe is due to be sworn in on 12 August unless Tsvangirai lodges his challenge.

The MDC has until 10 August to lodge their case.

The court will have 14 days to make a ruling.

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