A former American President, Barak Obama has taken to a private video that has gone viral to address Nigerians and encourage them to uphold Democratic norms because it is the only guarantee to secure fast development in the country.
I’m told that there’s a saying in your country – to keep Nigeria one is a task that must be done.
“Nigeria is a great nation and you can be proud of the progress you’ve made. Together you’ve won your independence, emerge from military rule and strengthen the democratic institutions.
“You strive to overcome divisions and turn Nigeria’s diversity into a source of strength. You’ve worked hard to improve the lives of your families and build the largest economy in Africa.
”Now you have a historic opportunity to help write the next chapter of Nigeria’s progress by voting in the upcoming elections
“For elections to be credible they must be free, fair, and peaceful. All Nigerians must be able to cast their votes without intimidation or fear. So I call on all leaders and candidates to make it clear to their supporters that violence has no place in democratic elections, and that they will not incite, support, or engage in any kind of violence before during, or after the votes are counted.
“I call on all Nigerians to peacefully express your views and to reject the voices of those who call for violence. And when elections are free and fair it is the responsibility of all citizens to help keep the peace no matter who wins.
“Successful elections and democratic progress will help Nigeria meet the urgent challenges you face today. Boko haram a brutal terrorist group that kills innocent men women and children must be stopped. Hundreds of kidnapped children deserve to be returned to their families, and Nigerians who have been forced to flee deserve to return to their homes. Boko haram wants to destroy Nigeria and all that you have built. By casting your ballot you can help secure your nation’s progress, he said.