Nigerians Should Be Proud Of 2023 Presidential Poll Despite Disappointments – UK Envoy

Catriona Laing, the outgoing British High Commissioner to Nigeria, says citizens of the country should be proud of the 2023 presidential election.

Laing, who spoke at a farewell visit to the national assembly in Abuja on Tuesday, said despite the controversies over the outcome of the February 25 presidential election, the process was fascinating and portended a bright future for Nigeria.

She said, “Nigeria’s politics is just so fascinating. I was here for the last election and I will finish with this election. I am indeed impressed with Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“Yes, there have been some setbacks but overall, I see this as positive and Nigerians should be proud. Nigeria’s politics is fascinating just to watch it.

“What I really want to get across is that Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. The world watches your progress to democracy.

“Though there were some disappointments in the last election, overall, every Nigerian should be proud because since 1999, Nigeria has been on the right track as far as participatory democracy is concerned.”

Laing urged Nigerians to remain resilient and confident in the forthcoming election, maintaining that their voices would be heard through their votes.

“The election here is very different and fascinating as you are moving to three party system or maybe even four. I think Nigerians as well should realise that their votes count,” she added.

Laing’s comments come amid outrage from political parties, presidential candidates who faulted the conduct of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).