Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission has approved the deployment of an AU Election Observation Mission (AUEOM) to Nigeria as the country prepares for general elections in February.
A statement from AU on Thursday in Addis Ababa said that prior to the arrival of the short-term observers, AU would deploy a team of 15 electoral experts as long-term observers.
Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.The statement noted that the experts would remain in the country until March 11 to observe all critical stages of the electoral process.
It said the 15 long-term observers were expected to be joined by 50 short-term observers from AU member states to follow the electoral process and to meet with government and electoral officials, candidates and political parties, civil society representatives and media.
It added that the AUEOM’s assessment of the electoral process would be independent.
The AU stated that the purpose of the AUEOM was to offer impartial assessment of the elections and compliance with the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s international and regional commitments with regard to democratic elections, as well as with laws governing elections in the Nigeria.
The AUEOM has a mandate to observe and report on the electoral process in Nigeria and to operate in accordance with relevant AU instruments on democracy and elections.
The mission would issue its preliminary findings and conclusions shortly after the election day.
A final report with recommendations for future improvement of elections in Nigeria would be published within two months after the elections, the AU added.
