The Cheer News
Politics

Edo Election: UK Deploys Observers To Monitor, Vows to Sanction Sponsors of Violence

High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing has said that the United Kingdom is set to deploy observers to monitor the Edo State Saturday’s governorship election and the Ondo State gubernatorial election slated for October 10.

Laing also said there is a plan to take action against sponsors of violence, including a travel ban to the United Kingdom.

Laing, met with the leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the main opposition, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The decisions of the UK Government were contained in a statement in Abuja by the High Commission to Nigeria.

The statement reads: “As a friend and partner of Nigeria we are closely following the lead up to the off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states scheduled for September 19 and October 10 respectively.

“These elections are important, both as an essential element of effective governance within both states and an indicator of the strength of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

“Our High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catriona Laing, has held meetings with leaders of the two main political parties, the APC and PDP.

“The discussions focused on the need for the parties’ leaders to prevail on supporters to avoid violence before and after the elections and we welcome the Edo candidates‘ signature of the National Peace Committee and INEC convened peace accord yesterday.

“We will be deploying observation missions to both the Edo and Ondo elections and supporting civil society led observation.

READ ALSO: Edo Saturday’s Guber Election Materials Arrive CBN

“The UK takes a strong stand against election-related violence and, just as we did in the general election in 2019, will continue to take action against individuals we identify as being responsible for violence during the elections.

“This could include restrictions on their eligibility to travel to the UK, restrictions on access to UK based assets or prosecution under international law.

“The UK will continue to provide support and engagement as we move towards these elections. We urge INEC, the Police and all other agencies involved to work together to deliver free, fair and credible elections.”

Related posts

How Akpabio Plans to Restore Integrity and Efficiency in Justice Sector

EDITOR

Buhari Fitness For Election: Campaign Council Gives Buhari Clean Health Bill

EDITOR

How Buhari Shatters Tinubu’s 2023 Presidential Ambition – Fani-Kayode

EDITOR

Leave a Comment