The Economic Community of West African States said it has noted the decision by the Independent National Electoral Commission to postpone the presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled to hold on February 14 to March 28, 2015and the gubernatorial and state legislative elections from February 28 to April 11, 2015 as a result of the security challenges.
While noting the concerns and disappointment of Nigerians and all other stakeholders occasioned by this postponement, ECOWAS called on all political actors to respect the decision by INEC and accept it in good faith.
ECOWAS equally called on Nigerian security services to remain dedicated towards restoring normalcy in the North East of Nigeria.
The regional body also encouraged INEC to take advantage of the postponement to complete all pre-election arrangements, particularly the distribution of Permanent Voter Cards in order to ensure free and credible elections.
While emphasizing its continued support for the electioneering process in Nigeria, ECOWAS underscored the need for the respect of the Constitution and seized the opportunity to encourage all political stakeholders to refrain from utterances and speeches that may incite their supporters or opponents to violence.
ECOWAS called on all Nigerians at this time to abide by the democratic process and uphold the rule of law.
