The United Kingdom has congratulated the people of Ekiti State for their peaceful and democratic participation in the just concluded governorship election in the state.
The UK, in a statement on its official Twitter page on Monday, also commended the security agencies, civil society partners, and all stakeholders for their collective effort in the successful conduct of the poll under the new legal framework.
It expressed concerns about reports of vote-buying during the election and called on the relevant authorities to hold any persons involved accountable, stressing that buying and selling of votes have no place in a democracy.
The UK advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reflect on other potential improvements to the electoral process ahead of general elections in 2023.
”Our team of observers on the ground noted commendable improvements in the electoral process including the timely opening of polls, better functioning of the BVAS devices for accrediting voters, and the transparent and efficient electronic transmission of polling unit
results to INEC’s results viewing portal.
”We encourage INEC to reflect on other potential improvements to the electoral process ahead of general elections in 2023, especially the re-distribution and assignment of voters to newly established polling units to reduce queuing times, better awareness and implementation of electoral guidelines by INC staff and improved accessibility at polling units to help with the participation of persons with disabilities.
”We urge any party or individual who is dissatisfied with the process to seek redress in a peaceful manner and through the appropriate legal channels.
”As Nigeria moves closer to the 2023 general elections, we encourage people to register and collect their PVCs and to participate actively in the political process. The UK will continue to assist INC and our partners in their aspiration to support peaceful, credible and inclusive
elections in Nigeria.,” it said.
