Pat Stevens/
The United States Embassy in Nigeria has denied allegations of bias levelled against it by the Buhari Campaign Organisation.
The Embassy’s reaction came on the heels of the disclosure by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, that the Federal Government planned to summon the US Ambassador to Nigeria, Stuart Symington, over his statement on the election which appeared partisan.
Onyeama revealed this in an interview on the sidelines of the 32nd Ordinary Session of the Assembly of the African Union, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Also, spokesman of the Buhari campaign, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), had, yesterday, said the utterances of the US Ambassador and those of other countries, seemed to give tacit support for the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar.
However, the US embassy clarified today that it was not supporting person or party.
Part of the statement reads: “The United States Embassy in Nigeria wishes to reiterate, unequivocally, that we are not taking sides in Nigeria’s election.
“We do not support any party or candidate. We support a level playing field and the democratic process.
“That is the bedrock principle of our government’s advocacy on democratic elections. In the final run-up to the Feb. 16 vote, fake news and rumours are operating in overdrive. But it must be repeated: we are not taking sides.
“The United States is Nigeria’s long-term and enduring friend.
“We provide more than $1bn in assistance and help, save more than two million lives of Nigerians each year through our health and humanitarian assistance.
“This will not change. We are Nigeria’s good partner, and this will continue after this democratic election – no matter who wins.
“This election is Nigeria’s, but it is also important for Nigeria’s neighbours and for the world.
“Nigeria has long played a great leadership role in the region and beyond as a force for democratic stability. The credible electoral results of 2015 empowered Nigeria to play that role.
“The United States looks forward to a similar result this week.”
While reiterating that the fate of Nigeria remains in the hands of its citizens, the US said it would continue to support Nigeria’s democracy.
It called on security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission and all relevant stakeholders to remain neutral on Saturday’s elections.
The US welcomed the signing of peace accords by the candidates for president and other offices.
The statement further says: “Now is the time to grow that peace by ensuring all get the message and put it into action so that both the voting and the aftermath are peaceful and fully respect the democratic process.
“Peace benefits all Nigerians and peace is the responsibility of every citizen as you work together to ensure your elections are free, fair, transparent, and credible.”
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