South Africa’s former president Thabo Mbeki will be leading the Commonwealth team of election observers to Nigeria later this month for the general elections.

Sixteen distinguished individuals from around the Commonwealth make up the team, including politicians, diplomats, and legal, human rights, gender equality, and election administration specialists.

This announcement was made by Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC, who constituted the observer group after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) extended an invitation to the Commonwealth.

The observer group will undertake independent and unbiased observations of the election’s preparations, voting, results collation, and the general electoral environment.

The observers will evaluate the overall manner in which the process was conducted and, where necessary, offer suggestions for improving Nigeria’s electoral system.

“The Commonwealth remains a committed and reliable partner in Nigeria’s continuing journey towards peaceful democratic governance.

“Since 1999, we have observed all six general elections in Nigeria and the deployment of this observer group is a testament to the Commonwealth’s enduring support for the promotion of the culture, processes, and institutions of democracy in Nigeria,” Ms Scotland, said. 

“In accordance with the values and principles of the Commonwealth Charter, the work of the group seeks to promote transparency, strengthen democracy and the rule of law, and protect the right of the people of Nigeria to participate in credible, transparent and inclusive elections to shape their society.

“This month’s elections hold immense significance not just for Nigeria, but for the entire African continent and the wider democratic world.

“It is, therefore, essential that all stakeholders in Nigeria reaffirm their shared commitment to ensuring a peaceful election environment which is conducive to the free exercise of people’s franchise and in which fundamental freedoms and rights are respected,” she added.