By Victoria Ojeme
ABUJA—The British government has said it will condemn any use of violence to intimidate or distract the democratic process in the 2011 general election.

It also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, and Nigeria Police to provide all logistics and practical arrangement to ensure credible, peaceful election.

The British government also insisted that the best ‘internal democracy’ standards in party primaries be strictly adhered to and be closely regulated by INEC, supported by civil society, to ensure transparency.

This was contained in a statement by the Public Relations Officer, Hooman Nouruzi, who noted that the fresh dates of Nigeria’s next election will provide helpful clarity.

“The British government urges INEC and the police to use the additional time to press on as rapidly as possible with all logistical and practical arrangements to ensure credible, peaceful elections.

“The election campaign in Nigeria is entering a decisive stage with the imminent party primaries. We call on all leaders,  parties and candidates at all levels to commit to democratic values and behaviour, including mutual respect and policy-based dialogue, avoiding corruption, rigging and hate speech.

“We condemn any use of violence to intimidate or distract the democratic process. We recommend that the best ‘internal democracy’ standards in party primaries be strictly adhered to under party constitutions and closely regulated by INEC, supported by civil society, to ensure transparency.

“Given the importance of this election process for Nigeria, for Africa and for the international community, we encourage Nigerian leaders and people to do everything to build confidence by taking forward peaceful democratic processes and putting national interests first, enabling every vote to count and the will of the people to be known through credible polls.

“The British government restates its commitment and support to the Nigerian authorities in carrying out this objective,” the statement added.