The European Union
(EU) has congratulated President Goodluck Jonathan, governors-elect and
legislators-elect on their victories in the just concluded 2011 general
elections.
The EU, in a
statement delivered by its High Representative for Foreign Affairs,
Catherine Ashton, on the conduct and outcome of the general elections
held in April, said it was ready to work closely with the new
government and to continue partnering with Nigeria in support of good
governance, democracy and economic growth.
“I congratulate the
people of Nigeria on the holding of successful elections and for their
determination to participate in the democratic life of their country,”
the statement said. “The National Assembly, presidential, governorship
and state houses of assembly elections represent a significant
improvement on previous years and can be considered at this stage as
the most credible elections since Nigeria’s return to democracy in
1999.”
The EU said it
wishes the elected candidates well in ensuring an agenda based on
accountability to the electorate, delivery of improved governance and
the pursuit of economic and social development for the nation.
It also commended
the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),
particularly its chairperson, as well as the Nigerian Youth Service
Corps and security agencies.
It said though a
number of irregularities and deficiencies were observed during the
elections, INEC should swiftly assess the electoral process in order to
further strengthen its operations and to take adequate and transparent
action against electoral offenders.
No to violence
The EU, however,
condemned all acts of violence surrounding the elections and the
ensuing loss of life and displacement of people, adding that the
Nigerian authorities should take the necessary action to protect the
rights of all citizens affected and to bring to justice the
perpetrators of the violence.
The organisation also called on political parties and their
candidates to respect democratic processes and to pursue any grievances
peacefully and within the rule of law.
