We are disappointed by the quality of 2019 polls —US | Nairalaw

The US Embassy in Nigeria has expressed disappointment in the
quality of the 2019 elections in Nigeria.

The US Embassy said in a statement on Thursday that low turnout
of voters, voter intimidation, interference by security forces,
vote buying and violence reportedly marred the conduct of the
elections in some locations.

It admonished all stakeholders to work towards a free, fair,
credible, transparent, and peaceful process, especially for those
who would participate in Saturday’s supplementary polls across many
states.

“As long-time friends of Nigeria, we continue to follow closely
the still ongoing elections. We do not have a preferred party or
candidate,” the embassy said in a statement.

“As noted by many observer groups in their preliminary reports,
we too were disappointed by the low voter turnout as well as
credible reports of voter intimidation, vote buying, interference
by security forces, and violence in some locations.

“We are saddened by those acts of violence and extend our
deepest sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives,
including those who worked for the Independent National Electoral
Commission and the security services.”

The Mission expressed support for a democratic process “where
the will of the Nigerian people is reflected in the results.”