US scores
Nigeria’s 2019 elections low
The United States government has expressed displeasure over
Nigeria’s conduct of the 2019 general election.
The US, however, said it would continue to follow closely,
the supplementary elections.
In a statement by the Public Affairs Section of the United
States Diplomatic Mission to Nigeria, the US said like many observer groups
noted, it was disappointed as well, by the low voter turnout and reports of
voter-intimidation, vote-buying, interference by security forces, and violence
in some locations.
Nigeria more divided than during civil war — Obasanjo
Nigeria more divided than during civil war — Obasanjo
As a result of the acts of violence perpetuated during the
election, the US expressed sadness and extended its deepest sympathy to the
families of those who died, including those who worked for the Independent
National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the security agencies.
It restated an earlier position that it had no preferred
party or candidate, but supports a democratic process where the will of the
Nigerian people is reflected in the results.
“The United States, once again, congratulates the Nigerian
people’s commitment to the democratic process throughout the election season.
The United States supports a democratic process where the will of the Nigerian
people is reflected in the results. As
long-time friends of Nigeria, we continue to follow closely the still ongoing
elections. We do not have a preferred party or candidate.
“As noted by many observer groups in their preliminary
reports, we, too, were disappointed by the low voter turnout as well as
credible reports of voter-intimidation, vote-buying, interference by security
forces, and violence in some locations.
“We are saddened by those acts of violence and extend our
deepest sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives, including those
who worked for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the
security services.
“As the 2019 electoral cycle comes to an end, we urge all
stakeholders to work towards a free, fair, credible, transparent, and peaceful
process, especially for the many Nigerians across the country who again will go
to polls tomorrow,” the US said.
The US further encouraged all stakeholders, including INEC,
political parties, and the security services, to continue to improve the
electoral process for future elections. Daily Sun