Be proud of presidential poll despite disappointments, UK envoy tells Nigerians

Catriona Laing, the outgoing British High Commissioner to Nigeria, says citizens of the country should ignore disappointments and be proud of the recently concluded election.

Speaking at a farewell visit to the national assembly in Abuja on Tuesday, Laing said although controversies trailed the election, the country’s politics is fascinating and holds a bright future.

“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,” Laing said.

“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 and key stakeholders who faulted the conduct of the election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

There have also been demands for Mahmood Yakubu, INEC chair, to step down.

On his part, Ahmad Lawan, senate president, commended Laing on her role in strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Britain and asked her to continue with the support.

TheCable had reported that Richard Hugh Montgomery has been appointed as the new British high commissioner to Nigeria.

Laing who has been the United Kingdom’s representative in Nigeria since 2018 will be transferred to another diplomatic service appointment.

Montgomery is expected to begin his new role in April 2023.