By Sadiq Umar, Abuja.
The United States of America on Sunday expressed disappointment at the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to postpone Nigeria’s general elections by six weeks.
The US in a statement issued by the Secretary of State, Mr John Kerry, alleged political interference with the INEC by government, describing it as unacceptable.
“It is critical that the government not use security concerns as a pretext for impeding the democratic process,” he stated.
Adding: “The international community will be watching closely as the Nigerian government prepares for elections on the newly scheduled dates.
“The United States underscores the importance of ensuring that there are no further delays.
“As I reaffirmed when I visited Lagos last month, we support a free, transparent, and credible electoral process in Nigeria and renew our calls on all candidates, their supporters, and Nigerian citizens to maintain calm and reject election-related violence,” Kerry added.
