The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Nigeria 2023 has condemned violence leading up to election day.
In a statement on Friday, the EU EOM condemned the recent acts of severe and coordinated incidents of violence, in particular the recent assassination, and urged authorities to hold those responsible to account.
Chief Oyibo Chukwu, the Labour Party (LP) senatorial candidate for Enugu East Senatorial District and his personal aide, were murdered in Enugu on Friday.
The EU EOM said it had been following the preparations for the 25 February general elections, including the just concluded campaign activities and the conduct of political parties and candidates as well as other stakeholders.
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“The EU EOM will continue to observe the electoral process, including the transparency of the election administration, the impartiality of security agencies, and the independence of the judiciary,” it said.
The EU EOM Chief Observer, Barry Andrews, called on all electoral stakeholders to engage in a manner that reflects the spirit of the Peace Accord signed on 22 February – on election day and in the days that follow as votes are counted and tabulated, and results are announced.
“Furthermore, we urge security agencies to fulfil their responsibilities and ensure an enabling environment for peaceful elections.
“Any concerns about the conduct of the elections or its outcome should be channelled through designated election tribunals and courts as provided for in the laws of Nigeria,” the statement noted.
The EU Election Observation Mission was deployed by the European Union upon an invitation from the Independent National Electoral Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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