United States President, Joe Biden, has enjoined presidential and other candidates vying for different positions in Nigeria’s 2023 general election to accept the result of the elections that would be announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Biden, who hailed the signing of the peace accord by presidential candidates in Abuja on Wednesday, equally urged the candidates to support a peaceful transition of power after the forthcoming general election.
He gave the admonition via a statement issued on Thursday by the U.S. Consulate General in Nigeria.
President Biden, who noted that the United States has no preferred candidate or party in Nigeria, called for a peaceful and transparent process that reflects the will of Nigerians.
He said: “I commend yesterday’s peace accord in Nigeria, signed by the political parties and candidates running in Nigeria’s presidential election on February 25.
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“By signing this pledge, the parties and candidates have committed to accept the results of the election, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission, and to support a peaceful transition of power.
“Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy, and all Nigerians deserve this chance to choose their future – freely and fairly. While the United States does not support any single candidate or party, we strongly support a peaceful and transparent process that reflects the will of the people of Nigeria.
“On election day, I encourage all Nigerians – no matter their religion, region, or ethnicity – to exercise this fundamental freedom and make their voices heard – including young voters, many of whom may be heading to the ballot box for the first time.
“The United States stands with the Nigerian people as they chart a path toward a more democratic, prosperous, and secure future. I appreciate President Buhari’s firm commitment that the will of the people will be respected.
“And in the coming days, I encourage voters to remain peaceful and patient as their ballots are tallied, and urge the political parties and candidates to live up to their pledge,” Biden stated.
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