The European Union in Abuja on Tuesday said it had sent an Election Observation Mission for the forthcoming general election in Nigeria.
An announcement signed by the Press Officer of the mission, Eberhard Laue, said that the EU gathering would be lead by Santiago Ayxela.
It said that Ayxela, who is a part of the European Parliament, and from Spain, would arrive in Abuja before Jan. 25.
``a delegation from the European Parliament and EU ambassadors in Nigeria will likewise join the mission on election days,'' the announcement said.
It stated that the EU EOM's presence was an evidence of its dedication to the behavior of comprehensive, straightforward and sound election in Nigeria.
The announcement cited Ayzela as saying, ``we don't simply concentrate on the election days, but on all parts of the constituent procedure, including the mediation of petitions long after voting is finished".
It added that the mission would conduct a comprehensive analysis of the entire electoral process.
``This will include assessing the legal framework, the performance of the election administration, voter registration, candidates' nomination and political parties’ primaries.
``This also includes campaign activities, respect for fundamental freedoms, access to and conduct of the media, voting and the counting, announcement and acceptance of results, and complaints and appeals.
``The EU EOM is bound by a code of conduct which requires strict neutrality and no interference in the process and undertakes all its work in accordance with the Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation,’’ it said.
It stated that the EU EOM would publish its initial findings in preliminary statements, which would be presented at press conferences, two days after an election day.
``A final report will be later published which will include recommendations for improvements for future elections,’’ it added
(NAN)
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