The presidency has reacted to statements issued by the U.S, U.K and the E.U on the suspension of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Walter Onnoghen, where they all expressed serious concern.
The Federal Government has now said it is determined to ensure free, fair and credible elections, noting that the Buhari led government will not bend the rules and will not allow meddling in the nation’s affairs.
A presidential media statement issued, on Saturday evening, notes that though the Nigerian Government welcomes the prevailing keen interest and partnerships for successful elections in the country, it rejects any interference or perception management that promotes apprehension, citizens distrust or undermines the transparency and acceptability of the outcomes of Nigeria’s electoral process.
According to the statement, Nigeria reserves the right to be insulated from suggestions and or interference with respect to wholly internal affairs and commands international laws, customs and norms that mandate and require nations and the comity to respect this prerogative to all.
“The Federal government has ensured the independence of all organs, institutions and arms of government to perform their functions in a manner that is transparent and is not lacking in integrity whether institutionally or by persons within such institutions or organs and will continue to do this.
Although the question of foreign interference, whether state-sponsored, promoted or otherwise has dominated recent elections and outcomes globally, the federal government assures citizens and the global community that it will fiercely and assiduously promote the will and the right of Nigerians to choose and elect their leaders without pressure or assistance from persons or entities that are not constitutionally empowered to participate in the process,” the statement read.
