By Gloria Ikibah
The Federal Republic of Nigeria has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence that has erupted in Mozambique following its recent presidential elections.
Reports indicate that the unrest, concentrated in the capital city of Maputo and major cities like Beira and Nampula, has led to the loss of over 121 lives and left more than 380 people injured.
The violence reportedly began after Mozambique’s Constitutional Council confirmed Daniel Chapo of the Mozambique Liberation Front (FRELIMO) as the winner of the presidential election with 65% of the vote. The opposition, rejecting the results, has raised tensions, triggering widespread protests and clashes.
In a statement issued by the Acting Spokesperson of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Nigerian government called for calm, and urged all political actors in Mozambique to pursue legal avenues to address grievances.
Nigeria also extended its sympathies to the Mozambican government and the families of those affected by the crisis.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria advises aggrieved parties to explore appropriate legal means to seek redress.
“Our thoughts are with the Government of the Republic of Mozambique and the families of all those affected by this dreadful crisis,” the statement read.
The Federal Government furth willer reaffirmed its commitment to supporting peace and stability in Africa, and called for dialogue and restraint to resolve the unfolding conflict.