Press release

Foreign Secretary “concern” at decision to postpone Nigerian elections

Foreign Secretary sets out concern over decision to delay Nigerian elections by six weeks

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Foreign Secretary, Philip Hammond, said:

The decision by the Nigerian Electoral Commission to postpone the presidential elections is a cause for concern.

The Nigerian people have the right to credible, peaceful and transparent elections. There should be no further delay in delivering democracy and I urge all to remain calm during this period of frustration.

While we support Nigeria in its struggle against terrorism, the security situation should not be used as a reason to deny the Nigerian people from exercising their democratic rights. It is vital that the elections are kept on track and held as soon as possible in accordance with international norms.

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Published 8 February 2015