STUART Symington, the United States ambassador, to Nigeria has congratulated the tens of millions of Nigerians who stood patiently in long lines to vote and those worked with the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in the Saturday, February 23 elections. Symington noted that many observer groups in their preliminary reports adjudged the election as predominantly peaceful, “and it was proof of the Nigerian people’s resolute commitment to choose their leaders.”

Nevertheless, the ambassador said the peaceful achievement of the electorate was shadowed by the violence of a few.  “We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives, and we urge all candidates to honour the Peace Accord they signed. All should convince those who support them to refrain from using force or violence to interfere with INEC.

“No one should break the law by announcing results before INEC does, or break the peace by claiming victory before the results is final. Everyone has a common interest in showing patience as INEC collates and announces the election results,” Symington counselled.

– Feb. 25, 2019 @ 16:35 GMT |