Buhari back -pedals, says second term will witness prosperity

President Muhammadu Buhari barely a week after saying his next tenure will be tough especially for looters, has recanted, saying his next four years would rather be peaceful and prosperous.

Buhari, who made this assertion while hosting leaders of the organized labour at the State House, Abuja, maintained that his next tenure of four years in office would be corruption as his administration will remain focused on his campaign promises to fight corruption, grow the economy and fight insecurity.

He said he looks forward to receiving proposals from labour leaders on how jointly, a synergy between government and labour can be built that would assist in achieving the common goals of the federal government.

He said: “By the grace of God, majority of Nigerians have given me another four years of continuity. We will remain focused on our promises, which remain security, economy and fighting corruption.

“I want to assure you that the next four years will be peaceful, prosperous and corruption free. I, therefore, look forward to receiving your proposals so that together, we can achieve these goals.”

Buhari also thanked the labour leaders for their support and cooperation towards the conduct of the presidential election, saying their cooperation helped many to exercise their civic rights, including their roles in voter education and prayed for the conduct of violence-free governorship polls on Saturday.

“We cannot succeed without your cooperation. I appreciate the pressure you are under from your respective constituencies, most especially if you have to submit yourself for elections proving to your members that you are with them rather than with the government and we understand.

“Let me start by thanking you for the support and patriotism that you have shown during the presidential elections. You and many Nigerians stepped in to help many Nigerians exercise their rights to vote.

You intervened as patriots not for political, religious and tribal reasons. You stood in during a very difficult period for all of us.

“On behalf of all Nigerians who benefited from your kind support, I want to say thank you. As a result of what you did, many citizens were able to travel and vote. I am also aware that many of your members were very active in voters’ education and promotion of peaceful elections in your various communities.

“As we go to the polls this weekend, my prayer is that we also conduct elections in a non-violent manner as I look forward to your continued support and engagement to ensure creative ways. We cannot afford to go back to the days of violence,” he said.