EU 2015 Election Observer Mission seeks implementation of its recommendations, visits APC
NAN-H-118
Mission
By Emmanuel Mogbede
Abuja, Oct. 19, 2017 (NAN) The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Nigeria says that it is left for the Nigerian government to accept its recommendation on the 2015 general elections.
Chief Observer of the mission, Santiago Fisas Ayxela made this known on Thursday in Abuja, according to a statement by the APC`s Assistant Director of Media and Publicity, Mr Edegbe Odemwingie.
Fisas Ayxela led a delegation of the mission on a visit to the All Progressives Congress ( APC) National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.
He, however, said that some of the mission`s recommendations were to be implemented by the legislature, while others by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and some political parties.
Ayxela, who is also a member of the European Parliament, disclosed that the delegation was on a follow-up mission to Nigeria.
He said the mission was to assess the implementation of the recommendations of the 2015 EU EOM to Nigeria report by various stakeholders including the APC.
He said that the mission was also to identify the opportunities, challenges and preparations ahead of the Nigeria’s 2019 general elections.
“This is my seventh visit to Nigeria, I came for elections in 2015. I was Chief Observer of the electoral mission of the European Union.
“ I also returned to give the President the report of our mission.
“We are here for the mutual review of the report that we made after the 2015 elections, “ Ayxela said.
He added that the meeting was also to talk about preparation for the 2019 general elections.
According to the statement, the APC national chairman expressed the party`s readiness to exchange views on the 2015 EU EOM to Nigeria report.
“We use this opportunity to renew our acquaintance, a lot of very interesting things are happening in your part of the world.
“It is a good opportunity to touch base again and exchange ideas and views,“ the statement quoted Odigie-Oyeyun as saying.
Meanwhile, the APC in a separate statement had congratulated Gen. Yakubu Gowon on his 83rd birthday.
The party noted that Gowon had continued to be a symbol of national unity and a voice of caution and restraint in the national conversation.
It recalled Gowon’s sacrifice and dedication as Head of State during Nigeria’s civil war, which led to the preservation of the country`s statehood.
“After the war, his efforts towards peace building, national reconciliation and reconstruction demonstrated that he was a detribalised leader committed to the wholesome growth and development of the country.
“Gowon is still one of the greatest champions of Nigeria’s unity, leading the Nigeria Prays Movement, a body committed to the peace, prosperity and well-being of Nigeria.
“Gowon is, no doubt, a true statesman and source of inspiration to us all, especially at a time when the sovereignty and integrity of our nation are being threatened by insurgency and separatist agenda, “
The party, however, appealed to Nigerians to emulate the sacrifice, zest and patriotism of Gowon, by promoting the unity of the country through their words and deeds.
APC urged Nigerians to also imbibe values such as compromise and reconciliation, which according to the party, Gowon had passionately lived for and promoted after the civil war.
The party wished Gowon more joyful years ahead, filled with peace and good health. (NAN)
EEM/AFA
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Edited by Felix Ajide