The Economic Community of West African States Election
Observation Mission has called on Nigerians who contested the
presidential and National Assembly elections to accept the results
in good faith.
The mission gave the advice in its preliminary report signed by
its Head, Mrs Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, and made available to
journalists on Monday.
“In the spirit of the commitment made in the peace accord of
February 13, 2019, the mission urges the candidates to accept the
verdict of the polls in good faith; and in case of complaints, to
seek redress by legal means solely,” the report read.
It said the advice was one of the preliminary conclusions it
reached pending the declaration of final results by the Independent
National Electoral Commission.
The group described the electoral process as largely
peaceful.
It said, “The ECOWAS Observation Mission considers the electoral
process was largely peaceful and transparent as voters were able to
cast their votes freely.
“The mission commends the general public and voters for their
patience and determination to exercise their civic
responsibility.
“The mission calls upon INEC and other stakeholders to approach
the final phases of the process with fairness and transparency
until the announcement of the final results.”
It added, “The mission urges INEC to take steps to address the
many shortcomings, including operational capacity and systems that
were observed all through the process.”
“The mission appeals to party leaders, candidates, their
supporters and the press to show tolerance and restraint leading up
to and after the announcement of the results.”
The observer group commended the INEC and security agencies for
what it called their dedication and professionalism.
“Finally, the mission congratulates the voters and the great and
good people of Nigeria on the patriotism, tolerance, and sense of
duty, which contributed to maintaining peace and stability in spite
of the many challenges,” the report added.
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