WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), ranking member and chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined in introducing a bipartisan resolution reaffirming the United States’ strong support for democracy and democratic institutions in Nigeria. Unveiled in advance of the country’s presidential and National Assembly elections (slated for February 25), and most of its gubernatorial and State Assembly elections (slated for March 11), the bipartisan resolution calls for transparent, credible, and peaceful election processes across Nigeria.
“Nigeria’s upcoming elections are a critical test for the resilience of the largest democracy in Africa and essential to stemming the threats to peace, stability, and constitutional democratic rule in the broader region,” said Ranking Member Risch. “Pre-election violence in Nigeria, particularly against the electoral commission, is deeply concerning and threatens to undermine the polls. This resolution reaffirms U.S. support for Nigeria and encourages the government to ensure elections are transparent and inclusive.”
“I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution urging the Nigerian government to work to ensure that this year’s elections are peaceful, and that the outcome reflects the true will of the Nigerian people,” said Chairman Menendez. “Against the backdrop of regional democratic backsliding and pervasive assaults on human rights, the rule of law, and already fragile democratic institutions within Nigeria, election participants and stakeholders’ commitments to promote transparent and credible electoral processes are more critical than ever. As signaled by this resolution, the United States will continue to closely watch the upcoming elections, and stand with the people of Nigeria who deserve to be able to freely participate in an election that results in a peaceful transition of power.”
Text of the resolution can be found here.
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