Former President John Agyekum Kufuor has tagged as impressive turnout of voters for Nigeria’s 5th democratic elections since the end of military rule in 1999.
Mr Kufuor is in the West African nation as head of the observer mission of the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas).
Speaking to TV3’s Komla Klutse in Abuja, Nigeria, he said complaints by eligible voters about delay on the part of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to verify them in time for voting will be communicated to the appropriate authorities.
“We just wish the process will go through successfully and peacefully,” Ghana’s former leader told our correspondent on Saturday, March 28.
Additional time
Some voters had vented their anger regarding the delay for verification, asking the observer mission led by Mr Kufuor to enjoin INEC’s swiftness over the exercise.
“We need additional time. Please Mr President [John Kufuor] assist us here. Let them give us additional time,” one frustrated voter called out.
Mr Kufuor acknowledged the concerns of the voters and could not hide his impression over the turnout.
“Obviously from what we have seen so far, the people are ready to cast their votes and we also see the security presence everywhere.”
He observed that Nigeria’s strategic position not only in West Africa but also on the entire continent makes the election important for all.
INEC has announced that voting in areas that encountered technical difficulties may be extended into Sunday.
Though there are 14 faces on the ballot sheets, incumbent Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former military ruler General Muhammadu Buhari have emerged as the frontrunners.
Results are expected 48 hours after voting ends.
Source: GhanaWeb
