By Enyichukwu Enemanna
The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Nigeria 2023 has charged security agencies to remain apolitical and maintain neutrality while the presidential and National Assembly elections hold on Saturday.
The EU EOM said it had been following the preparations for the 25 February general elections, including the just concluded campaign activities and the conduct of political parties and candidates as well as other stakeholders.
“The EU EOM will continue to observe the electoral process, including the transparency of the election administration, the impartiality of security agencies, and the independence of the judiciary,” it said in a statement on Friday while also condemning the recent acts of severe and coordinated incidents of violence in build up to the elections.
It continued, “Furthermore, we urge security agencies to fulfil their responsibilities and ensure an enabling environment for peaceful elections.
“Any concerns about the conduct of the elections or its outcome should be channelled through designated election tribunals and courts as provided for in the laws of Nigeria,” the statement noted.”
The EU EOM Chief Observer, Barry Andrews, called on all electoral stakeholders to engage in a manner that reflects the spirit of the Peace Accord signed on 22 February – on election day and in the days that follow as votes are counted and tabulated, and results are announced.
The EU Election Observation Mission was deployed by the European Union upon an invitation from the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
