The Head of ECOWAS election observation mission in Nigeria and former President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Mr Earnest Bi Koroma says the mission has noted with concern the fuel and naira scarcity as well as insecurity that are needed to be addressed ahead of the elections.
He made the observation known in Abuja when he paid a courtesy visit to the minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Geoffrey Onyeama.
Mr Koroma said the mission was in Nigeria with a lot of expectations towards a positive outcome of the 2023 polls.
He explained that 250 ECOWAS observers would be deployed during the conduct of the exercise to work along with other stakeholders.
Mr Koroma stressed that Nigeria was one of the most important countries in the sub-region and whatever happens in the polls affects the rest of the continent.
While commending President Muhammadu Buhari for clearly showing commitment to the credibility of the elections, Mr Koroma said It was important for any democratic setting to allow external systems to monitor its elections.
He expressed regret that 5 attempted coups were experienced within the sub-region while also acknowledging the role played by Nigeria in upholding democratic tenets in Africa.
In his opening remarks, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Geoffrey Onyeama who welcomed the ECOWAS observation mission, explained that President Muhammadu Buhari has made it clear that he was committed towards peaceful conduct of elections and transfer of power, which he has demonstrated so far.
Reporting by Hamza Alkali;Editing by Fany Olumoye; Editing by Oluwaseyi Ajibade