The National Unity Forum (NUF), a civil society group, hailed the 2023 general election in Nigeria as a significant improvement over past polls, despite facing various obstacles during the process. Speaking at a rally in Abuja, NUF’s National Coordinator, Comrade Godwin Meliga, highlighted the election’s positive aspects amidst challenges.
Meliga emphasized that while no election can be flawless globally, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) managed to alleviate tensions in the country through its handling of the election. He stressed that a compromised electoral process could have incited violent unrest nationwide, endangering Nigeria’s unity.
Acknowledging the inevitability of protests following election outcomes, especially by losing parties, Meliga praised the current INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmud Yakubu, for introducing innovative practices. He lauded INEC’s transparency during the recent elections, which deterred potential troublemakers seeking to exploit electoral violence for ulterior motives.
The Forum commended INEC’s dedication to ensuring the success and integrity of the 2023 general elections. Moreover, Meliga affirmed NUF’s commitment to collaborate with INEC and the National Assembly to enhance electoral laws and democratic processes in Nigeria.
Additionally, NUF urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu, state governors, and other leaders in addressing the nation’s economic challenges. While acknowledging the possibility of civil disobedience and protests due to socio-economic and political issues, Meliga advocated for national unity through prayer as the most constructive approach amidst current challenges.
