In France, Buhari restates commitment to free, fair elections

President Muhammadu Buhari has restated his administration’s commitment to free and fair elections, assuring that it will be followed through in every future election.

In an interactive session with some Nigerians in Paris, France, on Wednesday, he explained that the bedrock of democracy remains sustenance of the multi-party structure, with trust from citizens.

The President noted that results from elections since he assumed office had been a mixed bag, with the people’s choice playing out, promising to keep the template that had brought more credibility to the electoral process.

A statement issued by Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media & Publicity) quoted him as saying: “Free and fair election is a great concern. In the last elections, our party lost in some elections and it reflects our position of non-interference.

“Normally those in power will win by hook or by crook. We believe in free and fair elections. I have respect for Nigerians to choose their leaders. We have shown we respect our citizens by allowing them to choose their leaders.

“We gave instructions to security to deal with anyone who uses thugs to disrupt electoral processes. What I can assure you is that you can walk about and around with your head raised high that this administration is committed to a multi-party system.”

President Buhari said he had watched Nigerians spend long hours in campaigns listening to candidates since 2003, 2007, 2011, when he contested elections and lost, and 2015 and 2019 presidential elections, which he won.

“Nigerians deserve respect. I have suffered before, so I know what it means. My duty is to serve Nigeria and Nigerians with all my heart. I assure you that in spite of the ill-luck, with drop-in resources, we will do our best,’’ he added.

The President said investments had been channelled into the agricultural sector, with visible results, explaining that the policy on border closure to neighbouring countries was to protect the economy and improve security.

“The future of Nigeria is in agriculture,’’ he noted.

On security, President Buhari said all the service chiefs were changed in order to inject new energy and ideas into protecting the country, adding that the security chiefs were also given clear targets and timelines.

“We will educate people to develop our country. Our greatest resources are our people and educating them is a priority,’’ the President added.

In his remarks, Nigerian Ambassador to France, Kayode Ibrahim Laro, appreciated the President for always creating time to interact with Nigerians, describing him as the “most friendly President to Nigerians in diaspora.”

The statement informed that at the meeting, Nigerians in Paris raised issues with the President on security, voting in elections, economy and education.

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