Nigeria’s elections are still far from international best practices, going by happenings at the just concluded general poll.

A Non-Governmental Organisation, Cleen Foundation, which is one of accredited observer for the elections, says it is disturbing, considering that the elections were characterised by wide spread violence.

Its Executive Director, Benson Olugbuo, who called for concerted efforts to stop the trend, said the elections, in spite of the violence, could be regarded as another important step in Nigeria’s experience with democracy.

Olugbuo however said Nigerians must strive to get things right in subsequent elections, because for the nation’s democracy to continue to grow and flourish, Nigerians must conduct elections devoid of violence.

He commended the majority of Nigerians that demonstrated commitment to the electoral process, by going out to vote and largely conducting themselves in a peaceful manner.

Olugbuo called on the federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, civil society organisations (CSO) and well-meaning Nigerians to think of measures that would ensure free, fair and violence-free elections in the country.

He said democratic elections would only thrive when security of lives and properties as well as safety of electorate, electoral officials, materials and national critical infrastructure are guaranteed.

Olugbuo said Nigeria cannot afford to continue having violence featuring in its elections at all levels, saying it was quite unfortunate that Rivers State for example has continued to experience violence in almost all elections in the country.

“Rivers State is only a sad example of what happens in other places during elections. The country as a whole needs to take serious view of election violence with a view to bringing it to an end.

“We call upon the traditional and religious leaders, political leaders, business owners and professionals, civil society leaders and government to come together and find lasting solutions to violence that mar elections in that state,’’ he said.

Olugbuo posited that if politicians do not become desperate in their quest for power, the level of violence would be minimised greatly, saying some politicians have turned a civil way of acquiring power into war.

“If politicians abide by the rules and respected the wish of the people to freely and peacefully choose their representatives, the level of violence in the elections will be curtailed.

“It is time that political parties and politicians commit themselves to peaceful participation in elections beyond the ceremony of key contestants signing peace accords,’’ he said.

He expressed sadness that the unhealthy culture of electoral violence could hinder speedy development, adding that widespread insecurity in the country negatively affects general elections.