By Stanley Ugagbe
In what will go down as one of the most heated elections in the history of the United States, former Vice President and candidate of the Democratic Party, Joe Biden defeated candidate of the Republican Party and incumbent President Donald Trump to emerge President-elect.
Following the victory, Biden’s vice, Kamala Harris made history by becoming the first Female vice President-elect as well as the first Black person and first South Asian, to hold the office.
As at the time of filing this report, the Associated Press reported that Biden garnered 290 electoral votes as against Trump’s 232 electoral votes to emerge winner of the world’s most coveted seat. The benchmark for a winner is 270 electoral votes.
In his victory speech, Biden who harped on unity said “I won’t see red and blue states but I’ll be a president for all the states”.
However, President Trump is yet to concede defeat, alleging electoral fraud. He has also threatened legal process. He becomes the second American president to refuse to concede defeat after John Adams in 1800
Nevertheless, several world leaders have congratulated Biden on his emergence as the 46th President-elect of the most powerful nation in the world.
Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau in a statement, said “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Joe Biden and Kamala Harris on their election as the next President and Vice President of the United States of America.
“Canada and the United States enjoy an extraordinary relationship – one that is unique on the world stage. Our shared geography, common interests, deep personal connections, and strong economic ties make us close friends, partners, and allies. We will further build on this foundation as we continue to keep our people safe and healthy from the impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic, and work to advance peace and inclusion, economic prosperity, and climate action around the world.
“I look forward to working with President-elect Biden, Vice President-elect Harris, their administration, and the United States Congress as we tackle the world’s greatest challenges together.”
On his part, Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari in his congratulatory message, urged Biden “to promote greater engagement with Africa”.
Buhari said “I am thrilled by the fact that you are an experienced politician who had served as Congressman for 40 years and a Vice President for eight years. This is a remarkable track record that gives us hope that you will add value to the presidency and world affairs.”
The Nigerian leader also noted that, “with your election, we look forward to enhanced cooperation between Nigeria and the United States, especially at economic, diplomatic and political levels, including especially on the war against terrorism.”
