The UK Minister of State for Development and Africa, Andrew Mitchell, has tasked the Nigerian government, politicians and all Nigerians to be free, fair and credible when the Presidential election is held this Saturday.
In a statement issued by the British High Commission in Nigeria, Mitchell stated that Nigeria is important to the UK, and as a result, the country is following the Presidential, National Assembly and governorship elections closely.
He said: “Over the past two months, I have met the four presidential candidates and the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and emphasized our support for the process and our commitment to a strong relationship between our countries.
The UK government continues to work with INEC and Nigerian civil society partners to provide advisory support on electoral and legal reforms, help strengthen democratic institutions, and advocate the importance of civil society involvement in electoral and democratic processes to help deliver credible elections. .
“It is important for the stability and democratic consolidation of Nigeria that the electoral process is free, fair and credible. I encourage all actors in Nigeria to proactively intervene to reduce tensions and prevent violence in the period before, during and after the elections.
Adding: “I ask party officials at all levels to respect human rights and the law and electoral institutions and take a firm stance against violence and hate speech. I strongly condemn all actions that undermine the peaceful and transparent conduct of the electoral process.
“Where the UK is aware of attempts to undermine the democratic process at National or State level, we stand ready to take action against those who engage in or interfere with electoral violence and other anti-democratic acts.
“These actions may include preventing people from obtaining UK visas or imposing sanctions under the human rights sanctions regime.
“The UK government remains committed to supporting credible and inclusive elections, which are fundamental to Nigeria’s continued democratic growth and the future of regional and global democracy”, the statement read.