2019: Again, US warns against riging, violence  * Says there ‘ll be severe consequences  * Tasks INEC,  security agencies on transparency, neutrality 

2019: Again, US warns against riging, violence

* Says there ‘ll be severe consequences

* Tasks INEC,  security agencies on transparency, neutrality

By Steve Oko

With about one week to the February 16 presidential election, the United States of America,  has warned against any attempt to manipulate the outcome of the poll or instigate violence,  saying such acts will not go unpunished.

The US tasked the Independent National Electoral Commission,  INEC, as well as the security agencies to ensure the polls are credible and hitch-free.

The United States’ Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo, in a press statement said the 2019 polls were very critical, hence, the international community is interested in its success and credibility. 

“We will remain intensely focused on the elections “, the US said,  insisting that she cannot be harassed into keeping off from the exercise.

According to the statement obtained by Wawa News Global, the US urged INEC to resist external “pressure and intimidation” in the upcoming general elections”.

The statement said that the polls would be an opportunity for the Nigeria  to solidify her democratic leadership in Africa.

It read in part : “The United States government supports a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful election that reflects the will of the Nigerian people.

“It is critical that the Independent National Electoral Commission operates free from outside pressure and intimidation and in a totally objective manner.

“Nigerian security services must provide a safe and secure environment for the Nigerian people to exercise their rights.

“Those who interfere in the electoral process or incite violence must be held to account.

“The upcoming elections are an opportunity for Nigeria to solidify its place as a democratic leader in Africa”.

The US stressed on the need for credible and peaceful general elections in the country to avoid unnecessary crisis capable of distablising the country.

According to the US, Nigeria’s 2019 general election is  a critical test for the country, the ECOWAS sub-region and the entire continent.

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