Statement by Andrew Mitchell, Minister of State for Development and Africa:
Nigeria matters to the UK, and we are following the run up to these Presidential, National Assembly and Gubernatorial elections very closely. Over the last 2 months I have met 4 of the presidential candidates and the Chairman of INEC, and emphasised our support for the process and our commitment to a strong relationship between our 2 countries.
The UK government continues to work closely with INEC and our Nigerian civil society partners to provide advisory support on electoral and legal reforms, assist in strengthening democratic institutions, and advocate for the importance of civil society engagement in electoral and democratic processes to help deliver credible elections.
It is vital for Nigeria’s stability and democratic consolidation that the electoral process is free, fair, and credible. I encourage all actors in Nigeria to intervene proactively to calm any tensions and prevent violence in the periods before, during and after the elections.
I call on party officials at all levels to respect human rights and electoral laws and institutions and take a firm stand against violence and hate speech. I strongly condemn any actions that undermine the peaceful and transparent conduct of the electoral process.
Where the UK is aware of attempts to subvert democratic processes at the national or state level we are prepared to take action against those who engage in or incite electoral violence and other anti-democratic behaviours. These actions could include preventing people from obtaining UK visas or imposing sanctions under our human rights sanctions regime.
The UK government remains committed to supporting credible and inclusive elections, which are fundamental to Nigeria’s continued democratic growth and to the future of regional and global democracy.
About the Nigerian General Elections
Nigeria has been holding Elections since the country gained independence from Britain in 1960, with Nigeria’s first military republican government coming into power after the first Nigeria General Elections that year.
Over time these elections have seen a number of changes and challenges, such as coups, military rule and the current federal democratic system. Every four years Nigeria holds a nationwide election in two parts; the second being more popularly known as Presidential Elections.
These parliamentary elections determine who will take up positions in Nigeria’s Senate and House of Representatives.
Nigeria’s most recent general elections were held in February 2019, during which over 70 million Nigerians voted – almost double that of 2015 levels – to choose who would govern them for the next four years. Since then Nigeria has seen a peaceful transition of power with Muhammadu Buhari taking office in May 2019.
Nigeria must continue to strive towards free and fair elections but it is evident that progress is being made within Nigeria’s political landscape with campaigns on citizens rights and an increased focus on voter reform and participation.
Sources: THX News & British High Commission Abuja.
