ECOWAS Observers Hail Free And Fair Polls In Nigeria

Election observers from Economic Commission of West African States (ECOWAS) led by former president of Liberia, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf have hailed the free and fair presidential and national assembly elections held across Nigeria on Saturday.

The observers said in a statement Monday that “In the spirit of the commitment made in the peace accord of February 13, 2019, the mission urges the candidates to accept the verdict of the polls in good faith, and in case of complaints, to seek redress by legal means solely.”

“The ECOWAS Observation Mission considers the electoral process was largely peaceful and transparent as voters were able to cast their votes freely.”

“The mission commends the general public and the voters for their patience and determination to exercise their civic responsibility.”

“The mission calls upon INEC and other stakeholders to approach the final phases of the process with fairness and transparency until the announcement of the final results.”

“The mission urges INEC to take steps to address the many shortcomings, including operational capacity and systems that were observed all through the process.”

“The mission appeals to party leaders, candidates, their supporters and the press, to show tolerance and restraint leading up to, and after, the announcement of the results.”

“Finally, the mission congratulates the voters and the great and good people of Nigeria on the patriotism, tolerance, and sense of duty, which contributed to maintaining peace and stability in spite of the many challenges.”