EU, UK, US, Others Task Politicians on Sustenance of Democracy

As Nigeria celebrate 19 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, the European Union (EU), United Kingdom (UK), United States of America (USA) and 19 other countries have charged Nigerians, particularly politicians, to do everything possible to preserve the current democratic form of government in the country. The charge was contained in a goodwill message yesterday. In a joint statement signed by the 22 countries and made available to journalists, they specifically urged the executive and legislature to support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in ensuring that the 2019 general election is free, fair and credible.

“The struggle to achieve democracy gives it a special value and places responsibility on all of us to support the democratic process. We congratulate Nigeria on its progress since 1999, including the first peaceful transition of power from a ruling party to an opposition party in 2015. As we celebrate your progress, we encourage and support Nigeria and its people to consolidate and deepen democracy as the country heads towards important elections next year.

“Who will win the general election in 2019 is a decision for the Nigerian people. Our concern as partners of Nigeria is to see a process that is free, fair and inclusive. We are particularly keen to see greater participation in politics from under-represented groups, including women, young people and people with disabilities.

The signatories include the European Union, Germany, France, United Kingdom, United States, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada and Czech Republic.

Others are Denmark, Finland, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Spain and Sweden.