19/04/2007 (Agence Europe) - In a statement published on 18 April, the German presidency of the EU says the federal elections, due to take place on 21 April in the Federal Republic of Nigeria are “especially important, not only for the further development of Africa's most populous country but also for the entire region”. Following the elections held in Nigeria's 36 federal states on 14 April, “there are still doubts and uncertainties concerning the state of preparations for the federal elections on 21 April,” the German presidency says. It concludes by saying that if the federal elections scheduled for this coming Saturday go off in an orderly, transparent and credible manner, “this would provide the pluralistic and free democratic order in Nigeria with strong impetus”. The EU has called on the authorities responsible for organising these elections and all participating parties to help ensure that the elections are peaceful, fair and transparent. (hb)