The United States of America president, Barrack Obama on Monday sent a special message to Nigerians, urging a credible and peaceful polls, as preparations intensify for general elections in Nigeria.<\/p>\n
In the message sent directly to Nigerians, President Obama reminded the people about their struggle for the country\u2019s independence from colonialism, the struggle against military dictatorship and the need to turn the country\u2019s diversity into a source of strength.<\/p>\n
\u201cI call on all Nigerians to peacefully express your views and to reject the voices of those who call for violence,\u201d Obama said, adding that \u201cAnd when elections are free and fair, it is the responsibility of all citizens to help keep the peace, no matter who wins,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
In a full detail of his speech, Obama said, \u201cHello. Today, I want to speak directly to you\u2014the people of Nigeria.<\/p>\n
“Nigeria is a great nation and you can be proud of the progress you\u2019ve made. Together, you won your independence, emerged from military rule, and strengthened democratic institutions. <\/p>\n
“You\u2019ve strived to overcome division and to turn Nigeria\u2019s diversity into a source of strength. You\u2019ve worked hard to improve the lives of your families and to build the largest economy in Africa.<\/p>\n
“Now you have a historic opportunity to help write the next chapter of Nigeria\u2019s progress\u2014by voting in the upcoming elections. For elections to be credible, they must be free, fair and peaceful. All Nigerians must be able to cast their votes without intimidation or fear.<\/p>\n
“So I call on all leaders and candidates to make it clear to their supporters that violence has no place in democratic elections\u2014and that they will not incite, support or engage in any kind of violence\u2014before, during, or after the votes are counted. <\/p>\n
He called on all Nigerians to peacefully express their views and to reject the voices of those who call for violence, and when elections are free and fair, Obama said that it is the responsibility of all citizens to help keep the peace, no matter who wins.<\/p>\n
“Successful elections and democratic progress will help Nigeria meet the urgent challenges you face today. Boko Haram\u2014a brutal terrorist group that kills innocent men, women and children\u2014must be stopped. <\/p>\n
“Hundreds of kidnapped children deserve to be returned to their families. Nigerians who have been forced to flee deserve to return to their homes. Boko Haram wants to destroy Nigeria and all that you have worked to build. By casting your ballot, you can help secure your nation\u2019s progress.<\/p>\n
“I\u2019m told that there is a saying in your country: \u201cto keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done\u201d. Today, I urge all Nigerians\u2014from all religions, all ethnic groups, and all regions\u2014to come together and keep Nigeria one. <\/p>\n
“And in this task of advancing the security, prosperity, and human rights of all Nigerians, you will continue to have a friend and partner in the United States of America,” he assured<\/p>\n
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