PRESS RELEASES

State Department Issues Statement on Preparations for Nigeria's Elections

Friday, April 13, 2007

WASHINGTON, April 12 -- The U.S. Department of State issued the following statement:

On April 14 and 21, Nigerians will go to the polls in historic elections that will lead on May 29 to Nigeria's first civilian transfer of presidential power.

The election poses a unique opportunity for that country's democratic development. This transition, along with the sustained fight against corruption, and the emergence of an institutional balance of power among the three branches of government is a vital element in the growth and consolidation of democracy in Nigeria.

The United States is a committed partner in assisting Nigeria with its preparations for credible elections that are acceptable to the Nigerian people.

The United States has provided almost $15 million over the past three years to train political parties, electoral commission staff, and civil society in facilitating preparation of these polls. The United States is supporting nearly 200 observers accredited to the National Democratic Institute, the International Republican Institute, and the U.S. Mission in Nigeria.

We encourage the electoral authorities and government to take all possible measures to enhance public confidence in the elections. These steps should include the immediate granting of full and transparent access for domestic and international electoral observers, as well as posting and publishing results at each polling station.

We urge all parties to refrain from violence, and to exercise their liberties responsibly and according to the rule of law.

# # # #