US Has No Preferred Candidate in Nigeria’s Presidential Election – Biden
Biden noted that “Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy, and all Nigerians deserve this chance to choose their future freely and fairly”.
Story by Kingsley Joshua
ABUJA – As the world beams its searchlight on Nigeria ahead of Saturday’s Presidential election, the United States President, Joe Biden, has disclosed that the North American country has no preferred candidates among the contestants.
In a statement made available to Daily Independent by the United States Foreign Mission in Nigeria, he noted that “Elections are a fundamental part of a functioning democracy, and all Nigerians deserve this chance to choose their future freely and fairly”.
He also urged Nigerians to march out and exercise their civic rights, as he pointed out that the United States stands with the Nigerian people as they chart a path toward a more democratic, prosperous, and secure future.
Biden further commended the various political parties for participating in Wednesday’s signing of the Peace Accord in Abuja, as he noted that the move signifies that with their candidates, they are “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 added that “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.
“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.”