U.S Warns INEC Ahead 2019 Election

As the 2019 election slated to hold between February 16 and March 2 draws near, the United States has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to resist external “pressure and intimidation.”

The States in a press statement signed by its secretary of states, Michael Pompeo said that the forthcoming election in Nigeria would give Nigeria another opportunity to solidify its leadership in Africa.

Naija News reports that the United States described the upcoming election as a critical test for the country, the ECOWAS and the continent at large.

According to the statement, Pompeo said; “The United States government supports a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful election that reflects the will of the Nigerian people.

“It is critical that the Independent National Electoral Commission operates free from outside pressure and intimidation and in a totally objective manner.

“Nigerian security services must provide a safe and secure environment for the Nigerian people to exercise their rights.

“Those who interfere in the electoral process or incite violence must be held to account.

“The upcoming elections are an opportunity for Nigeria to solidify its place as a democratic leader in Africa”.

Meanwhile, the United States and the international community have continued to call for credible and peaceful elections in the country.

It would be recalled that Naija News had earlier reported that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has recently spoken on postponing the elections.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has stated that the commission will not postpone the forthcoming general elections. He stated this on Thursday while speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting, organized by the electoral umpire.