United States President, Joe Biden
US President, Joe Biden has commended political parties and candidates running in Nigeria’s presidential election for signing a peace accord.
In a statement, Mr Biden said by signing the accord, the parties had shown a commitment to accept the outcome of the election as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission. He said the accord also demonstrated a willingness by the parties to support a peaceful transition of power.
According to the US leader, elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy, stressing that all Nigerians deserve a chance to choose their future freely and fairly.
President Biden also reiterated his administration’s long-held stance: that the US does not back any single candidate or party, but strongly supports a peaceful and transparent process that reflects the will of the Nigerian people.
He encouraged all Nigerians, no matter their religion, region or ethnicity, to exercise “this fundamental freedom” and make their voices heard. He included eligible Nigerian youths in his call, many of whom, he said, may be heading to the ballot box for the first time.
“The United States stands with the Nigerian people as they chart a path toward a more democratic, prosperous, and secure future,” Mr Biden’s statement said.
It added that the United States President appreciated President Buhari’s firm commitment that “the will of the people will be respected”.
Writing by Hamza Alkali; Editing by Abdullahi Lamino and Tony Okerafor