America assures Nigeria of cooperation during April Elections

America has assured Nigeria of cooperation in the forthcoming elections scheduled to hold on April 14 and 20 and urged all parties involved to ensure their success.

‘The United States is a committed partner in assisting Nigeria with its preparations for credible elections that are acceptable to the Nigerian people.’ The U.S State department said in a press statement today.

‘The election poses a unique opportunity for that country's democratic development. This transition, along with the sustained fight against corruption, and the emergence of an institutional balance of power among the three branches of government is a vital element in the growth and consolidation of democracy in Nigeria.’ The report said.

America highlighted the financial and manpower support it has provided Nigeria for the April
elections.

'The United States has provided almost $15 million over the past three years to train political parties, electoral commission staff, and civil society in facilitating preparation of these polls. The United States is supporting nearly 200 observers accredited to the National Democratic Institute, the International Republican Institute, and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria.’ Sean McCormack, a Spokesman said.

America urged the electoral authorities and the government to ensure the total success of the election and urged all parties involved to eschew violence.

The press release said: ‘We encourage the electoral authorities and government to take all possible measures to enhance public confidence in the elections. These steps should include the immediate granting of full and transparent access for domestic and international electoral observers, as well as posting and publishing results at each polling station.

‘We urge all parties to refrain from violence, and to exercise their liberties responsibly and according to the rule of law.’

If the elections go smoothly, it would be the first time Africa’s most populous country embarks on a civilian to civilian transition since it achieved independence in 1960.

Many Nigerians are dissatisfied with the current administration. They say the fight against corruption is selective and that the government failed to institute a viable constitution and improve infrastructures, significantly power supply despite unprecedented rise in oil revenues.