President Joe Biden of the United States has encouraged President Muhammadu Buhari to deepen democracy  and ensure that the Nigerian electoral umpire, INEC, continues to be totally non-partisan.

Mr Biden made the demand in a meeting with leaders of six African countries slated to have elections in 2023.

The meeting, which was held in Washington DC, is on the sidelines of the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit taking place in the U.S. capital, per a statement by Garba Shehu, Mr Buhari’s media aide.

The U.S. President said the meeting with the select African leaders including those of Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Liberia, Madagascar, and Sierra Leone was to discuss elections and democracy in Africa.

He said it was also meant to share experiences with the United States on the forthcoming elections as well as encourage the countries to continue with the democratic process.

Mr Biden pointed out that he really understands the challenges facing the countries and expressed the willingness of the United States to support them in every area assistance may be required.

Extolling Mr Buhari, the U.S. president said he was happy the Nigerian leader did not attempt to subvert the country’s Constitution by seeking a third term.

“Nigeria is quite a model for democracy, especially the fact that President Buhari is not seeking a third term,” Mr Garba quoted Mr Biden to have said.

Mr Buhari expressed his appreciation to the U.S.  President for his positive remarks and congratulated him on attaining the peak of his political career, which is the presidency of the country.

He also thanked him for organising the Summit with African leaders and wished him well in all his endeavours. 

(NAN)