By Johnbosco Agbakwuru, Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari, on Friday, said that the May 29 handover date for the new administration is sacrosanct.

The President said Nigerians cherish democracy and have shown their love for it, adding that the citizenry will defend democracy from any real or perceived threats.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja shortly after observing the Eid prayer marking the end of the 30-day Ramadan fasting by Muslims, President Buhari said the future of democracy as a system of government was bright.

He said as he prepares to leave office in a little over a month, he felt satisfied and duly assured that Nigerians will defend the system against all threats.

President Buhari, in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu, was quoted as saying: “Nigerians appreciate the stability of democracy.

“The outcome of the elections, in which more than 10 governors failed to make it to the Senate, sent a clear message that ordinary Nigerians know the power of their votes and how to use it.

“Nigerians cherish democracy. They have shown their love for it and will defend it against real or perceived threats.

“They will continue to vote one way or the other depending on their preferences.

“President Buhari assured that the May 29 hand over date remains sacrosanct. God willing, nothing will stop it,” he added.