As Nigeria prepares for the February 16, 2019 presidential and national assembly elections, the United States government has urged the country to use the opportunity to solidify its place as a democratic leader in Africa.

The U S Secretary of State Michael Pompeo said in a statement that, “The United States government supports a free, fair, transparent, and peaceful election that reflects the will of the Nigerian people.”

According to him, “It is critical that the Independent National Electoral Commission operates free from outside pressure and intimidation and in a totally objective manner.

“Nigerian security services must provide a safe and secure environment for the Nigerian people to exercise their rights,” he said.

He added that, “Those who interfere in the electoral process or incite violence must be held to account.”