United States President Barack Obama has advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to correct the election anomalies recorded during the last two balloting exercises.
Speaking through the US secretary of state, Hilary Clinton, Obama said while the general elections have been a success for the people of Nigeria, the electoral process was far from perfect.
“We urge INEC to transparently review and take appropriate and transparent action on all allegations of ‘under-age’ voters, violence and intimidation, ballot stuffing, and inordinately high turnout in some areas of the country,” the statement issued from the public affairs section of the US diplomatic mission to Nigeria read, “I applaud the of people of Nigeria for their enthusiastic and orderly participation in the April 16 presidential election. This historic event marks a dramatic shift from decades of failed elections and a substantial improvement over the 2007 presidential election.”
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| United States President Barack Obama |
On the post-election violence recorded in some parts of northern Nigeria, the statement from Secretary Clinton condemned the development.
“The US condemns the acts of violence related to elections and we call upon all candidates, political parties, and supporters to respect the results of the election and channel any grievances or challenges peacefully through established, administrative and legal redress
The statement said the international community will be closely watching the upcoming gubernatorial elections.
Obama commended the INEC chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, and other stakeholders on what he described as “their strong collaboration and dedication to democracy.”
“They provided a real opportunity for the Nigerian people to select their most senior leaders and will position Nigeria to build its democracy through strong governance, transparent institutions, and economic developments” It said.
Congratulating the returning president, the statement said: “The United states congratulates President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on his election and wishes him well in meeting the many challenges facing Nigeria and in providing the good governance Nigerians deserve.”