The Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission to Nigeria, Santiago Fisas, has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for addressing the problems of the card readers which marred the March 28 presidential and National Assembly elections.
While speaking with our correspondent at Olosa Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, Fisas said reports he received across Lagos showed that the accreditation exercise was smooth.
Fisas, who is also a member of the European Parliament, said, “So far we have not received news of any problems. Not many people have come out to vote here in Victoria Island but the machines are working better than they did during the presidential election.
“The day is still very long and we will keep following the process including the collation which is a very important process. I urge the police and INEC to be neutral.
“We will give our recommendations after the elections and it is up to Nigeria to accept or not.”
Fisas also called for a constitutional review to give INEC more powers as well as the setting up of special courts to address election matters.
Fisas said governorship elections were just as important as presidential elections because governors made more direct impact on the lives of people than presidents worldwide.
The observer noted that generally, the voter turnout was not as high as the presidential but added that it would be too soon to conclude since voting has not yet been concluded.
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