Ahead of the Saturday, October 19 gubernatorial election in Edo State, the US Government has expressed concern over the deteriorating political climate in the state.
This was communicated in a statement recently released by the Political Affairs Unit of the US Embassy in Abuja.
In the statement titled “The United States Supports Democratic Process Where The Will Of Nigerian People Is Reflected In Results”, the US Government also condemned the role played by some political actors in the state.
Edo State has been in a political tussle of who wins the political heart of the state vis avis who emerges the next governor between incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki who is seeking reelection on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s candidate Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu.
“We are especially concerned with allegations of interference by security forces in political matters, which we will continue to monitor closely in the run-up to gubernatorial elections in the state in September.
“As long-time friends of Nigeria, we continue to follow political developments ahead of off-cycle elections in the country. The United States supports a democratic process where the will of the Nigerian people is reflected in the results, and does not favor any party or candidate.
“As the country approaches these elections, the US urged all stakeholders to work towards a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful process. We encourage all stakeholders, including INEC, political parties, and the security services, to continue to improve the electoral process”.
“As a democratic partner of Nigeria, the United States remains committed to working together to achieve our mutual goals of peace and prosperity for the citizens of both our countries,” the US statement read in part.
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