Mahama lauds Ghana and Nigeria's commitment to democracy

Accra, June 4, GNA - Vice President John Dramani Mahama on Thursday returned home from Abuja, Nigeria, where he joined the government and the people to celebrate 10 years of uninterrupted constitutional rule in their country.

Speaking to newsmen on arrival, Vice President Mahama congratulated Nigerians and urged them to remain steadfast in their efforts to entrench democracy and constitutional rule.

"Nigeria should now look into the future and forget about its turbulent past," he urged, adding that the country was not only Africa's most populous nation, but also an economic power house of the continent. Mr. Mahama recounted the current cordial ties between Ghana and Nigeria regarding social, economic and political issues, saying this should be further strengthened.

He also lauded the success story of Ghana's elections, saying the Electoral Commission must be commended for standing firm and sticking to its principles, even in the face of provocations. Vice President Mahama commended Ghanaians for their vigilance during elections.

He cited the last elections, saying at a point it appeared the polls were heading for a cliff-hanger and tensions rose, "but the people came out and made their voices heard and eventually the country had a smooth power transfer."