EU deploys election observation mission to Nigeria

The European Union (EU) has deployed a high-level election
observation mission to monitor the February General Elections in
Nigeria.

Mr Federica Mogherini, High Representative of EU for Foreign
Affairs and Security Policy; and Vice-President of the EU
Commission, made the announcement in a statement on Friday in
Abuja.

Mogherini said that EU had appointed Maria Arena as the Chief
Observer of the EU Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) for the
elections scheduled for Feb. 16 and March 2.

He said the deployment of the observation mission followed an
invitation by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

He said the EU had consistently followed electoral processes and
deployed an EOM to Nigeria’s general elections since 1999,
reflecting its long-term commitment to supporting credible,
transparent and inclusive elections in the country.

“As Africa’s largest economy and a key political and economic
player in West Africa, Nigeria is an important partner for the
EU.

“The EU is committed to supporting Nigeria’s path towards
stronger democracy and further political stability, building on the
2015 General Elections.

“I am confident that the deployment of an EU EOM, under the
leadership of Chief Observer Maria Arena, will contribute to an
inclusive and transparent electoral process,’’ he said

He also disclosed that Election Observation Mission Core Team of
11 EU election analysts, had arrived Nigeria on Jan. 4, and would
stay in the country until the completion of the electoral
process.

He said that the Core Team would be joined by 40 long-term
observers, who will be deployed across the country later this
month.

“The European Union’s Election Observation Mission looks forward
to cooperating with other international and domestic observation
missions

“Shortly after both election days, the mission will issue
preliminary statements during press conferences in Abuja.

“A final report, including recommendations for future electoral
processes, will be presented at a later stage, after the
finalisation of the electoral process,” he said.

The statement also quoted Arena as saying it is a great honour
for him to lead this important Mission to Nigeria.

“I hope that our observation will provide meaningful
contribution to the electoral and democratic process in Nigeria,”
he said (NAN)