Nigerian presidential elections proceed despite Boko Haram attacks

March 30, 2015

Assaults by Boko Haram terrorists failed to stop voting in Nigeria’s March 28 presidential elections, the Fides news service reports.

At least three polling stations were attacked, and 14 voters killed, in remote towns. But millions of voters cast their ballots despite the threats. The government had set up extra polling places to accommodate the many thousands of people who have fled their homes to escape the terrorists.

“So far, so good,” commented Cardinal John Onaiyekan of Abuja, speaking to Vatican Radio on election day. “Nigerians, as usual, have come out in big numbers with patience, not only to carry out their civic duty of voting but also to take advantage of their right to choose their leaders.” Military helicopters circled Nigerian cities to guard against attacks on the polls, and army planes attacked terrorist camps during the day. In Maiduguri, a city on northeastern Nigeria where Boko Haram has been most active, Bishop Oliver Dashe Doeme reported: “The elections were held in a calm manner in Maiduguri, without violence or crisis caused by Boko Haram.”

The tightly contested presidential election pits incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan against a former military leader, Muhammadu Buhari.

 

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Further information:

• Cardinal Onaiyekan on Nigeria elections: “So far, so good.” (Fides)
• "Boko Haram failed to prevent the holding of elections", says the Bishop of Maiduguri (Fides)
• Prelate: Nigeria needs a president who seeks the common good (CWN, 3/26