President Muhammadu Buhari expressed on Thursday that the 2023 elections are indicative of the growing strength of Nigerian democracy and the increasing sophistication of Nigerian voters in choosing their leaders.

Speaking during a meeting with the newly-installed Emir of Dutse, Jigawa State Capital, Alhaji Muhammad Hamim Nuhu Sunusi at the State House in Abuja, President Buhari noted that the outcome of 10 Governors failing to secure Senate seats demonstrates that there is no longer a guaranteed path to power, and that the voter is truly the king in elections.

According to a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, President Buhari was quoted as saying, “It is a testament to the maturity of our democracy and to the amazing sophistication of the voter.

What shocked me was that the ordinary citizen who is usually underrated has made the point of his political understanding of things.”

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He further added, “Assumption is always that you are Governor for eight years and you go to the Senate to crown the career. No one should underrate the Nigerian voter anymore. Politics will be more difficult, henceforth.”

After listening to the Emir of Dutse, who highlighted several government projects implemented in Jigawa State under the Buhari Presidency and made additional requests, President Buhari promised to do his best for the State in the remaining time left in his term, and also assured to brief the incoming President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on those requests.

He acknowledged the concerning issue of water supply to the State Capital and expressed his willingness to address it.

President Buhari also conveyed his deep condolences on the passing of the late Emir, Alhaji Nuhu Muhammad Sunusi, and stated that he will continue to pray for the repose of the deceased. The Emir and leader of the delegation, Alhaji Muhammad Hamim, expressed gratitude to the administration of President Buhari for their support in major rice production, the approval of a rail link to Dutse from Kano, and the restoration of peace in Jigawa State and neighboring countries that had previously experienced insecurity.

The Emir also requested the President’s assistance in resolving the acute water shortage affecting the State Capital.