Joe Biden, president of the United States, has said his country stands with the Nigerian people as they chart a path toward a more democratic, prosperous, and secure future.
He said in a statement on Nigeria’s upcoming election seen by BusinessDay that citizens of the country deserve to choose their leader.
“Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy, and all Nigerians deserve this chance to choose their future freely and fairly,” Biden said.
“While the United States does not support any single candidate or party, we strongly support a peaceful and transparent process that reflects the will of the people of Nigeria.”
He commended Wednesday’s peace accord signed by the political parties and candidates running in the presidential election on February 25.
Read also: African Commission urges FG to strengthen efforts to secure elections
“By signing this pledge, the parties and candidates have committed to accept the results of the election, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission, and to support a peaceful transition of power,” he said.
“On election day, I encourage all Nigerians — no matter their religion, region, or ethnicity to exercise this fundamental freedom and make their voices heard including young voters, many of whom may be heading to the ballot box for the first time.
“I appreciate President Buhari’s firm commitment that the will of the people will be respected. And in the coming days, I encourage voters to remain peaceful and patient as their ballots are tallied, and urge the political parties and candidates to live up to their pledge.”
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