The leaders of the worldwide decision perception missions in Nigeria and the United Nations have called for quiet after the deferment of the General Elections initially booked for Saturday, February 16, 2019.
In a joint proclamation on Saturday, the associations noticed that in spite of the fact that the move was because of logistical and operational difficulties, the choice has caused dissatisfaction for some.
They, nonetheless, approached Nigerians to “remain calm and supportive of the electoral process as INEC works to implement its new timeline.”
They added, “We urge INEC to use this time to finalise all preparations and ensure that the new election dates are strictly adhered to.
“We encourage INEC to provide regular updates and information to the public on its preparations in the coming days and weeks to enhance confidence and trust in the process.”
They guaranteed to keep on intently watch arrangements the nation over in front of the rescheduled dates, while promising solidarity with Nigerians “in their desire for credible and peaceful elections”.
The associations are the Economic Community of West African States Election Observation Mission, driven by previous President of Liberia, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf; African Union Election Observation Mission driven by a previous Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Hailemariam Desalegn; Commonwealth Observer Group driven by a previous President of Tanzania, Dr Jakaya Kikwete; and the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa Election Observation Mission driven by a previous President of Zambia, Rupiah Banda.
Others are the European Union Election Observation Mission under the authority of Belgian Member of the European Parliament, Maria Arena; National Democratic Institute/International Republican Institute Election Observation Mission driven by Former President of Botswana, Festus Mogae, and Vaira Vīķe-Freiberga, Former President of Latvia.
The Organization of Islamic Cooperation, spoken to by its Director of African Political Affairs, Ambassador Boubakar Adamou, and the United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, additionally participated in issuing the announcement.