The United States Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo has called on the federal government and political leaders including the military to ensure that the February 16th presidential elections is free from “intimidation.”
“The United States government supports a free, fair, transparent and peaceful election that reflects the will of the Nigerian people,” Pompeo said in a statement sent to Per Second News on Thursday.
“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,” he said.
The Secretary of State said the election offered “an opportunity for Nigeria to solidify its place as a democratic leader in Africa.”
A special report issued by the United States Institute of Peace in September 2018 cited violence and some factors as indicators that the potential for electoral violence is high.
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