Statement by the Secretary General of the Community of Democracies on the upcoming elections in Nigeria
February 10, 2015
Statement by the Secretary General of the Community of Democracies on the upcoming elections in Nigeria
Nigeria goes to elections on March 28 as a leading country in the region in terms of economic strength, population and example of democratic governance since its transition to democracy in 1999, and as a respected member of the Governing Council of the Community of Democracies.
Preparing for the general elections, the Government of Nigeria, political actors and citizens know that the international community is closely observing, expecting Nigeria to reconfirm and demonstrate its democratic leadership in the region in a time of great challenges to the democratic rule.
A peaceful conduction of democratic, free and fair elections will serve as an inspiration to other countries in the region and in the world. It will prove that democratic dialogue is stronger than violent attempts by extremists to ruin the pluralistic social tissue of a country. It will pave the way for a citizen-led, secure and sustainable future for Nigeria and for the continent.
Given the global and regional impact of the Nigerian elections, the Secretary General follows developments closely and looks forward to the continuation of the country’s fruitful, constructive and important participation in the Community of Democracies in the hope of welcoming it as the organization's next Presidency.
Warsaw, February 10, 2015
