The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, has announced that the United Kingdom will deploy personnel to observe the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, scheduled for June and August respectively. This move is part of the UK's effort to ensure the credibility of the electoral process.
Montgomery Visits APC National Chairman
Montgomery made the statement during a courtesy visit to Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, the national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), at the party's national secretariat in Abuja. The meeting focused on Nigeria's democratic journey, the importance of peaceful elections, and the country's strategic role within Africa and the world.
The British High Commissioner emphasized that the UK deeply respects Nigeria's sovereignty while maintaining a keen interest in the nation's democratic and economic progress. In response, Professor Yilwatda welcomed the commissioner and highlighted Nigeria's significance to stability in Africa and globally.
Public Reactions to the Visit
The news of Montgomery's visit to the APC chairman has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. Some citizens expressed support, while others voiced skepticism. Danito commended the initiative, stating, "Nigeria needs more British sphere of interest in our polity. Our politicians need external forces to monitor them to ensure they do the right thing."
Conversely, Chikwado Ugwuanyi criticized the UK's motives, saying, "Britain doesn't want anything good for Nigeria. They only care about their interests." Ifemenanma Elekwa called for broader observation, urging the UK to cover the entire 2027 general elections, not just the governorship polls. Henry Ugwuoke demanded the UK leave Nigeria, claiming, "You are the reason Nigeria can never get it right in elections." Muyiwa Remi questioned the UK's focus, noting internal issues such as the invasion of radical religious groups, and predicted that Africans would soon be liberated.
APC Denies Viral Senatorial Candidates List
In related news, the APC has denied a viral list of senatorial candidates for the 2027 elections circulating on social media. Felix Morka, the party's spokesperson, described the list as a total fake and urged party members, the media, and the public to disregard it. He called on stakeholders to stop sharing the list, as it creates confusion and misleads the public.
