by Andem Effiong

The European Union Election Observation Mission, which expressed concern over the postponement of the polls, has cautioned the Federal government that security though critical should not be political.

The mission challenged the security agencies to offer full support to the Independent National Electoral Commission and the electorate to exercise their franchise on March 28 and April 11, 2015.

The EUEOM chief observer, Santiago Fisas in a statement on Tuesday, acknowledged the different views about INEC’s postponement of the general elections.

“We are seriously concerned at this delay and the reason given. Security is critical but must not be political. People have to be able to vote, elections have to be held so that government is accountable. We look to the security agencies to give full support to INEC and all the people of Nigeria in the holding of polls on March 28 and April 11,” he said.

Fisas stated that the EU would continue to monitor the electoral process in Nigeria. He encouraged all the political parties, candidates and stakeholders to consider the extra time as an opportunity to prepare for the elections.

“The EUEOM commends the peaceful reaction so far to the postponement and will continue observing the electoral process. We encourage all political parties, candidates,” he added.