Former Ghanaian President, Jerry Rawlings has congratulated Nigerians on the emergence of Muhammadu Buhari as President-elect.

Buhari defeated incumbent, President Goodluck Jonathan in Nigeria's Presidential elections which held on March 28 and 29.

Rawlings also hailed Buhari, in a statement released on Thursday, April 2, as "a man whose integrity is extremely high"

The statement reads:

“Nigerians have taken the lead in the rejection of corruption."

“The election result is a manifestation of the people’s resolve to confront corruption, dishonesty and exploitation. This is a clear message to the new leadership. A bold step has been taken towards a new Nigeria and the incoming leader cannot be unaware of what is expected of him.

“Nigerians did not vote for just anyone. They voted for a man whose integrity is extremely high. 

Nigeria is tired of corruption and the choice of this leader is a clear indication of where she wants to go. I hope General Buhari will put together a team whose understanding of the power of the people recognizes and respects the will of the people.

“General Buhari owes it to his people and to Black Africans, the restoration of our pride and the black man’s dignity.

“The image of President Jonathan, a Nigerian Head of State climbing up the stairs to go and complain about Boko Haram to a French President is an image I hope I will not see again.”

Rawlings, like Buhari, first came to power as military Head of State in 1979 before being democratically elected in 1993.