Chair of Commonwealth observers meets head of Nigerian electoral body

The chair of the Commonwealth Observer Group (COG) in Nigeria, former Botswana President Festus Mogae, called on the chair of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of Nigeria, Professor Attahiru Jega, on 31 March at the INEC offices in Abuja, Nigeria.

Mr Mogae acknowledged the efforts made by INEC in preparation for the National Assembly and Presidential Elections scheduled for 2 April and 9 April respectively. He paid tribute to Professor Jega for the leadership he was providing to the Commission and observed that the Nigerian people and the international community had high expectations of him.

Mr Mogae also conveyed some concerns that had emerged from the Observer Group’s discussions over the past three days with various stakeholders, including the new system of accreditation that voters have to go through on polling day before they are allowed to vote, as well as fears about violence in some parts of the country.

“I share the sense of excitement and anticipation that we have come across in Nigeria, but also their apprehensions about the likely challenges that lie ahead. I am however confident that INEC will address these challenges, and hope that the elections go well,” Mr Mogae said.

Professor Jega welcomed the COG to Nigeria. He also acknowledged the technical assistance the Commonwealth had provided to INEC.

Noting the significant challenges that lie ahead of the Commission, he said that the INEC had done its best under the circumstances to prepare for the upcoming elections.

Meanwhile, the COG deployed to various locations around Nigeria on 31 March to observe the conduct of National Assembly polls on 2 April.