Chairperson of the Commonwealth Observer Group Joseph Warioba said on Saturday that the current general elections were crucial for Nigeria.

Describing the event as "the first occasion when power will be handed over by one elected civilian administration to another," he said that the elections were also an "opportunity to build on the experiences of the 1999 and 2003 elections," which were observed by the Commonwealth.

He explained that the task of his group is to "observe and report on relevant aspects of the organization and conduct of the election."

Warioba said that in conducting its duties, the group would be neutral, impartial, objective and independent.

"If we offer any criticisms, they will be constructive and with the intention to help strengthen the democratic process in Nigeria, " he added.

Warioba also said the final report would contain the group's main findings, conclusions and recommendations that would be submitted to the Commonwealth secretary-general.

According to him, the final report will also be posted in the Commonwealth Secretariat website.

Nigeria's general elections started on Saturday amid campaigners' zeal for democracy and the wish of most people in Nigeria for peace and safety, after numerous cases of violence were reported in the process of election campaigns.

About 28,000 candidates from 50 parties are running for the elections, which consist of two phases, gubernatorial and state assembly elections held this Saturday and the presidential and national assembly elections slated for next Saturday.

Source: Xinhua