Local media in Nigeria have reported that the much anticipated presidential elections have been postponed from February 14, to March 28, 2015, because of security reasons.
Nigeria’s elections – delayed on advise of security chiefs. Presidential elections now due March 28th
— will ross (@willintune) February 7, 2015
The six weeks delay according to the Nigerian Electoral Commission, will allow a newly-formed multinational force, the opportunity to reclaim areas controlled by Boko Haram.
[contextly_sidebar id=”j2st6rdsy0i3ViE3XWvz6706iyX9H2Ij”]Boko Haram’s occupation of some of these territories according to Nigerian local media, could disenfranchise more than 1.5 million voters.
About a fortnight ago, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry encouraged Nigeria to hold the elections as scheduled arguing that: “It’s imperative that these elections on time as scheduled.”
This would be “one of the best ways to fight back against Boko Haram,” he said. Boko Haram miitants bombed and killed some Nigerians at President Goodluck Jonanthan’s rally, minutes after he had left the rally.
The lead up to the elections has also been marred by pockets of violence between supporters of incumbent president Goodluck Jonathan and his challenger Muhammadu Buari.
By: Nana Boakye-Yiadom/citifmonline.com/Ghana