US Pledges To Support April Polls

US Pledges To Support April Polls

The United States government has promised to assist Nigeria in the conduct of free and credible polls in April.

The American Ambassador to Nigeria , Mr. Terence McCulley, made the pledge when he paid a visit to the Nigerian Senate President, David Mark, at the National Assembly, Abuja .

Mr. McCulley said the United States was watching with keen interest and high expectation hoping that Nigeria would get it right this time and that his country shall cooperate and assist the electoral process.

'' We have assessed Nigeria 's preparation for the elections and the enthusiasm of the citizens towards the success of the polls'' McCulley said.

'' With what we have seen so far on the part of the politicians, the civil societies, the government and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, I am optimistic that the outcome of the elections will reflect the wishes of Nigerians.'' He said.

The American envoy however counseled that the process leading to the elections should be free and credible, devoid of any hindrance and urged the government and relevant authorities to strengthen security network so that no Nigerian would be denied his or her right to exercise the franchise.

The Senate President gave an assurance that the government, especially the National Assembly, had done all that was needed to ensure a hitch-free process towards the election, saying that Nigeria is determined to achieve a free, fair and credible election that will meet the expectations of all stakeholders and the international community.

PR/Ani/Yinka