By Giwa SHILE
The Head of ECOWAS Observer Mission in Nigeria, former Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, has charged the Nigeria Police on credible elections in country.
She gave the charge during a visit to the acting Inspector General of Police (I-GP), Mr Mohammed Adamu, in Abuja on Wednesday.
Johnson-Sirleaf, who said the world was paying “very keen attention” to the elections in Nigeria, also commended the police for their efforts in maintaining law and order.
“I want you to know that going beyond Africa, the eyes of the world is on Nigeria today and is paying very keen attention to what happens to ensure that all goes smoothly.
“Peace, tolerance, tranquillity will take place as each Nigerian exercises their right and franchise to go to the polls and elect their choice.
“That is the democracy that you have chosen as a democracy that Africa values.
“To all of you, there is so much you have taken on and we just want to say thank you for all that you do to ensure that this process is a success.”
The former Liberian president expressed delight in serving as an observer in Nigeria because of its contribution to sustained peace in her country.
In his response, the I-GP stated that the Police was poised to provide conducive environment for the conduct of a peaceful and credible elections.
“We have already completed arrangements in securing the election materials, securing the INEC officials, providing security for election observers both national and international.
“After the elections, we have provided additional security in order to protect the results of the elections; so we are fully prepared,” he said.
Sirleaf also visited the National Peace Commission and held talks with Bishop Matthew Kukah.
Kukah commended Sirleaf for her contributions to peace and security in the region.
“You have been a beacon of light for African women and we really commend you for what you did and how very successfully you did it.
“You come from a background of vast experience internationally and you also understand the problems of Africa and you have also had the opportunity to deal with these processes.”
He said Nigerians were confident in the interventions of the peace commission and were reassured of its commitment to the election process in the country.
“We signed a peace accord to make the politicians sign on to the fact that they would conduct themselves in the most honourable way.
“The next phase in the signing of the accord is to commit the candidates to accepting the results of the elections, on conditions that they are perceived to be free, fair and credible.
“The fact that the international community has its eyes on Nigeria is very important for the process because it gives us more confidence and helps the players appreciate that they do not have to deal with Nigerians alone.”
He said the signing of the second phase of the peace accord would be done on Feb. 13. —NAN
