European Union Reacts To Daura’s Sack, Expresses Worry Over 2019

The European Union, on Thursday, reacted to Tuesday’s siege on the National Assembly by DSS operatives and the consequent dismissal of Mallam Lawal Daura as the agency’s Director-General.

Acting President, Yemi Osinbajo, had sacked Mr Daura and ordered his immediate detention after some masked operatives the DSS blocked the entrance of the National Assembly on Tuesday, preventing entry and exit of lawmakers from the premises.

The EU, in a statement distributed by its press officer, Modestus Chukwulaka, said: “The EU Heads of missions have noted with concern recent examples of interference in the democratic process by law enforcement services the most recent case being the barring of access to the National Assembly on August 7.

“The EU is fully committed to supporting democracy in Nigeria, and it commends the federal government’s swift action to protect the independence of the National Assembly as a critical pillar of democracy.

“While weighing in on Thursday, the EU emphasised that security agencies must be fair and professional in their conduct, especially against the backdrop of upcoming elections.

“The upcoming general elections in 2019 are vital in ensuring national stability, peace and prosperity for all Nigerians.

“It is for the Nigerian people to decide the outcome of the elections, and the EU calls upon all stakeholders in Nigeria to play their part so that voters can make their decision through a free, fair, credible and peaceful election process,” read the statement.