The United States says concerns raised about likely interference in Nigeria’s election results are not statements of fact.
After the concluding part of the Presidential and National Assembly elections were held on Sunday, the U.S. and the U.K. commended the process, but expressed worries that there may be “deliberate political interference” in the collation process.
They emphasised that such likely interference would be contrary to the letter and spirit of the Abuja Accord which both leading political parties, the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress, signed.
However, while giving her opinion about the electoral process in Nigeria on Tuesday, the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State For Africa, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, said that the concern was raised to highlight concerns that were raised by stakeholders in Nigeria’s political sector.
“Leading edge of technology”
“It is not a statement of fact, just a statement of concern.
“Many people have expressed concerns about what they suspect could be happening, but none of us know. Our statement was to highlight the concerns that were raised so that people know that if any efforts are being made to make any changes that people are watching.
“We are hopeful that the process, when it comes to conclusion, will make Nigerians proud of what they have accomplished and the world to applaud Nigeria for a success.
“We are hopeful that violence will not break out. Nigerians experienced that in 2011 and I don’t think anyone wants to go back to that period. No one should lose their lives wanting to express their will at the ballot box
“Both of the candidates have signed peace accords and we are hopeful that their messages to their supporters will encourage them not to go into the streets to express their desires.
“If there are problems, they should use the right means to work it out,” Thomas-Greenfield.
She said that the American government was impressed that many of the displaced persons in camps were allowed to vote, however, stressed that the “war is not over”.
“More should be done. Boko Haram will not be allowed to continue to terrorists people in the north.”
On the use of the Smart Card Reader, she said: “Absolutely, the card reader was not perfect but could be perfected. It provided a tremendous amount of confidence and transparency.
“We have to continue to work with the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure that the problems they experience are looked at and corrected for the future. I think Nigeria is on the leading edge of technology, as far as voting is concerned. Giving your large population, this is the way to go. I encourage continued use of card readers”.
She further said that the U.S. raised the concerns to ensure there would be no “deliberate political interference”.
“I am really proud of Nigerians. My heart was so warm when I saw how people were waiting in line.
“Nigeria has been in democracy for less than two decades. We are looking forward to the result and looking forward to working with Nigeria in the future.
“The world is watching Nigeria. Nigeria is Africa’s largest democracy and one of the world’s largest democracies and we want to see Nigeria continue to take its place in the community of democracies,” she added.
