Posted by Barack Obama, the former president of the United States, has urged political leaders and candidates to ensure that the upcoming elections are free, fair, and peaceful.
The former president said that Nigeria’s economy, which is currently the largest in Africa, has weathered difficult times and emerged victorious.
Additionally, he remarked that voting in the upcoming election provides an “opportunity to help write the next chapter of Nigeria’s progress.”
“Hello, today I want to speak directly to you, the Nigerian people,” Obama said. You can be proud of the progress you have made, Nigeria is a great nation. You have collectively achieved independence, overcame military rule, and bolstered democratic institutions. You have made Nigeria’s diversity a source of strength and worked to break down divisions. You have put in a lot of effort to make your families’ lives better and build the largest economy in Africa.
“By voting in the upcoming elections, you now have a historic opportunity to help write the next chapter of Nigeria’s progress. Elections must be free, fair, and peaceful in order to be credible. All Nigerians must be able to vote without fear or intimidation. Thus, I approach all pioneers and contenders to make it clear to their allies that savagery is not welcome in just races and that they wouldn’t affect, support or participate in any type of brutality previously, during or when the votes are counted.”
“I call on all Nigerians to peacefully express your views and reject the voice of those who call for violence,” he added. And regardless of who wins, it is the duty of every citizen to aid in maintaining peace in free and fair elections.
“Nigeria would be able to meet the urgent challenges it faces today if elections were successful and democratic progress was made.”