Ahead of the forthcoming election, British High Commissioner to Nigeria Catriona Laing urged politicians to respect the peace accord previously signed. She reaffirmed the UK government’s commitment to sanction any politician who incites violence across the country, adding that Nigerians who are also British nationals will not be exempt from sanctions if they undermine the electoral process.
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday, Laing called on party leaders to signal respect for the election outcome to all their supporters. “We will be watching for anyone who attempts to violate the electoral process,” she said. “If we are made aware of people inciting violence or engaging in hate speech, we can use our policies as tools for sanctions.”
The envoy expressed confidence in Nigeria’s security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission, particularly with the implementation of the Electoral Act. However, she warned that the socio‑economic crisis caused by cash scarcity could spark violence if not urgently addressed. “The election in Nigeria is very important, not only to Nigerian citizens but also to the West African region, the African continent and the whole world,” Laing said. “The eyes of the world are on Nigeria, and what happens at the election will send a very strong signal.”
Laing affirmed that the United Kingdom will continue to invest in creating conditions for a credible, free, fair and secure election. “The primary responsibility lies with Nigeria, but we play our part by meeting with INEC and civil society to ensure everything is perfect,” she noted. “In terms of necessary preparations, we are in good shape. The security forces are committed, and we are closely monitoring the economy to ensure the election is held on time.”
She urged Nigerians to cast their votes on 25 February without fear of intimidation and cautioned political parties to commit to respecting the election outcome and to convey that commitment to their supporters. Any disputes, she added, should be resolved through the normal judicial process rather than through violence.
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