BY EMEKA AGINA

The Heads of Mission of the European Union  and the United States of America in Nigeria have condemned the violence surrounding elections in Nigeria.

Looking ahead to the remaining elections, the world leaders in statement by the British High Commission in Nigeria also called for  an end to all acts of violence, asking  all  Nigeria’s leaders to act responsibly, to respect all electoral procedures and democratic processes, and to pursue any legitimate challenges peacefully and within the rule of law.

“We have closely followed events in Nigeria during the election period, including by supporting international and domestic observers nationwide.

“We congratulate the Nigerian people on their commitment to democracy. We welcome that independent observers have commended significant improvements in the conduct of the election, and we look to the electoral authorities to address the deficiencies and concerns which they have identified in a timely and transparent manner.

“We are disturbed at and condemn the ongoing violence surrounding this election period. Looking ahead to the remaining elections, we call for an end to all acts of violence, and for all of Nigeria’s leaders to act responsibly, to respect all electoral procedures and democratic processes, and to pursue any legitimate challenges peacefully and within the rule of law.

“We underline that the lives and livelihoods of Nigeria’s people must be respected, and that those responsible for violence must face due process and be brought to justice.

“This is an important moment for Nigeria. It is vital that the entire election process meets the expectations of the Nigerian electorate”  ” the world leaders said in the  statement.