The United States Consulate-General in Nigeria has announced its vigilant monitoring of activities leading up to the November 11 governorship election in Bayelsa State, expressing expectations for a peaceful and credible electoral process.
Mr. Mike Ervin, Chief of the Political/Economic Section at the consulate, made these remarks during a courtesy visit to Governor Douye Diri at the Government House in Yenagoa.
Ervin stated that the consulate delegation’s presence in the state aimed to monitor the ongoing activities because the United States is a significant partner of the Nigerian government in the conduct of elections. He emphasized the importance of mutual learning between the U.S. and Nigeria concerning democracy’s thriving principles.
He conveyed well-wishes for a peaceful election, underscoring the consulate’s hope that the democratic process would genuinely reflect the people’s will when the time comes in November.
Governor Douye Diri expressed his administration’s willingness to collaborate with the international community to advance democracy through a transparent and fair electoral process in the state. He stressed his expectations that the will of the people would prevail and not be obstructed by unknown forces.
Governor Diri also expressed concerns about security intelligence regarding his opponents, particularly Chief Timipre Sylva of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in relation to the ongoing crisis in the Nembe-Bassambiri community. He voiced apprehension that these developments might undermine the electoral process.
In conclusion, Governor Diri welcomed the delegation’s visit as a source of motivation and potential contribution to the growth of democracy in Nigeria and Bayelsa State. He reiterated his government’s commitment to a free, fair, and transparent election, emphasizing the importance of the people’s right to choose their leaders.
Accompanying the delegation were Jordan Lachance, Political Officer (Niger Delta), and Arnold Abulime, Political Specialist.
