The chief observer of the EU Election Observation Mission in Nigeria, Alojz Peterle, has described the governorship and state assembly elections as smooth and credible.
The EU official in a statement to reporters in Abuja on Friday said the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) provided adequate technical process that allowed the electorate smooth accreditation and voting.
The atmosphere in the majority of the states was calm and orderly, he said.
“We appreciate the commitment of voters to cast their ballot in spite of the violence in some northern states in the last week,” he added.
Peterle said based on the findings of the observers who were present in relevant states, elections did not resemble the quality of the process and environment of the previous elections.
He said not all the challenges observed in the previous elections were met.
Peterle said the team had identified inconsistent implementation of procedures, numerous instances of underage voting and increased attempts to influence voters.
He said the mission was also aware of reports from candidates, political parties and other stakeholders alleging irregularities in certain places.
“We appreciate the commitment to democratic values shown by defeated candidates who openly accepted the choice of the electorate,” the statement quoted him as saying.
“They serve as examples also for those who showed insufficient political tolerance during the electoral process,” he added.
“The EU Election Observation Mission appeals to aggrieved politicians to employ only legal means to address grievances,” Peterle said.
The mission is expected to present all of its findings in a final report reflecting a comprehensive analysis and recommendations some months after the polls.