THE Economic Commission of West African States, ECOWAS, and the African Union Observation Missions to Nigeria have appealed to the national leaders and the people of Nigeria to continue to maintain peace and adhere to the rule of law, while participating in the general elections.

In a goodwill message signed from the group, the observers said that they had watched with keen interest the progress of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, over the past week working together with domestic and international partners in addressing the logistical and technical challenges. “We are pleased that these operational constraints have been significantly addressed thus creating a conducive atmosphere for tomorrow’s general elections.  This signals a deepening and the building of confidence in the electoral process.”

They, therefore, noted Nigerians will have the privilege to vote for the leaders of their choice, and in doing so consolidate the country’s young democracy. They said the whole of Africa is standing in solidarity with Nigeria in this election.

They, nevertheless, gave kudos to Nigerians for their patience in the face of the last minute interruptions to their lives with the postponement of the 2019 general elections.

“We commend you, brothers and sisters across the length and breadth of this great country for remaining calm and resilient as these concerns were addressed. The signing of the 2019 National Peace Accord, facilitated by the National Peace Committee, is a further demonstration of the commitment of Nigeria to democracy.   We are confident that the same level of maturity will be demonstrated during the remaining phase of the electoral process.

“We applaud Nigeria for the pivotal role played in maintaining peace and the restoration of democracy in our sub-region. Several ECOWAS Member States, including Liberia, Sierra Leone and The Gambia are today considered post conflict success stories because of Nigeria’s proactive peacekeeping role,” the statement said.

The statement signed by former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf concluded: “On behalf of all the international observer missions present in Nigeria, I wish the people of Nigeria the blessings and guidance of the Almighty God.”

– Feb. 22, 2019 @ 17:03 GMT |