Brussels, 31/03/2015 (Agence Europe) - On behalf of the EU on Monday 30 March, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini congratulated the Nigerian people on their turnout in Nigeria's presidential and parliamentary elections on 28 March - which were recognised by international observers (including the EU) as “transparent and peaceful”. The initial partial results have already been contested and put the incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan and his opponent Muhammadu Buhari neck and neck. The EU has called on all parties to “continue to show patience and restraint” while awaiting the final results, and to respect the outcome of the voting.
“The Nigerian presidential elections are a crucial step in consolidating democracy in the country. I congratulate the people of Nigeria on their patience and perseverance”, Mogherini states in a press release published on Monday. She also congratulates the security services, the independent electoral commission (INEC) and the National Youth Service Corps on enabling the elections to take place and on “the peaceful and transparent nature” of the elections.
“Despite the challenges that were faced, the EU chief observer reported that INEC had made commendable efforts to strengthen the election arrangements, the big majority of people were free to vote, and there was so far no evidence of nationwide manipulation or intimidation. But it remains crucial that there should be no undue interference in the collation process that continues. It is now for all parties to accept the verdict of the people”, Mogherini states.
On behalf of the EU, Mogherini offered her condolences to the families of the victims of the recent attacks by Boko Haram and Bauchi, “which demonstrate the continued threat posed by extremists to Nigeria's democracy”. It is because of Boko Haram that these presidential elections - which were initially planned for February - had to be postponed until March for reasons of security (see EUROPE 11250). The EU observers, deployed at the request of the Nigerian authorities, will continue their mission until the electoral process is completed. (Aminata Niang)