The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said there are no
perfect elections anywhere in the world, in reaction to the statement by
the United States on the 2019 general election in Nigeria.
The US claimed it was disappointed by the low turnout of voters, as well
as the high level of military interference in the election.
The statement released by the US read: “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 on Saturday.
“We encourage all stakeholders, including INEC, political parties, and the
security services, to continue to improve the electoral process for future
elections. We look to Nigeria as an important leader on the African
continent. As a democratic partner of Nigeria, the United States remains
committed to working together to achieve our mutual goals of peace and
prosperity for the citizens of both our countries.”
However, Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary of the commission, stated
that the election was hugely successful.
He also said that the election is “by no means perfect” as there can be
“no country in the world where general elections are perfect from the
beginning to the end.”
He continued: “As one of our important partners, the Independent National
Electoral Commission appreciates the United States’ interest and support
for Nigeria’s electoral process.
“However, there is no country in the world where general elections are
perfect from the beginning to the end. In our reckoning, coupled with
various reports released by local and international observers so far, the
2019 general elections were a success, but by no means perfect.”
He noted that INEC would continue to do its part to deliver free, fair and
credible elections.
He also urged major players to play by the rules and shun electoral
violence as there is “no political office is worth the precious life of
any human being”.