The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Observers Group and former president of the United Republic of Tanzania H.E Dr. Jakaya Kikwete stated this on Monday, 25 February 2019, at a press conference in Abuja.

Dr. Kikwete, while giving the group’s interim statement on the Presidential and National Assembly elections, noted that the election related violence and loss of lives which occurred in a number of places, is deeply troubling, adding that Nigerian can do better.

The Chairperson, who stated that some party agents attempted to intimidate polling staff and voters, including during counting, stated that violence has no place in the modern democracy and so, emphasized that those responsible should be held accountable.

“We encourage all political parties to honour their commitment in the national peace Accord and reject violence”,he said.

He further noted, that despite the difficulties and challenges surrounding these elections, Nigerians had the opportunity to express their will and exercise their franchise.

According to him, “We trust that the final stages of collation and announcement of result will be handled in a transparent and credible manner. The people of Nigeria have demonstrated patience and commitment to their democracy”.

The Commonwealth Observers Group appealed to Nigerians to maintain commitment in the post-election period, even as Nigeria prepares to return to the polls on March 9, 2019 for the Governorship, state Assembly and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections.