The The Economic Community of West African States has urged Nigerians to respect the postponement of the presidential and legislative
elections from February 14 and 28 to March 28 and April 11, 2015 by the Independent National Electoral Commission, as a result of the security challenges in the country.
While noting the concerns and
disappointment of Nigerians and all other stakeholders occasioned by the postponement, ECOWAS called
on all political actors to respect the decision by INEC and accept it as good faith.
The commission, in a statement in Abuja on Monday, challenged the security agencies to remain dedicated towards restoring normalcy in the North-East.
The regional body also encouraged INEC to take advantage of the postponement to complete all pre-election arrangements, particularly the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards in order to ensure free and credible elections.
While emphasizing its continued support for the electioneering process in Nigeria, the ECOWAS underscored the need for the
respect of the Constitution.
It seized the opportunity to
encourage all political stakeholders to refrain from any utterances and speeches that may incite their supporters or opponents to violence.
It called on all Nigerians to abide by the democratic process and uphold the rule of law.
” ECOWAS calls on all political
actors to respect the decision by INEC and accept it in good faith,”
the statement read.
