Nigeria candidates urge peaceful election

Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan and leading rival Muhammadu Buhari are urging voters to avoid violence in Saturday’s presidential election, which analysts say will be the tightest in the nation’s history
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Goodluck Jonathan, 57

People’s Democratic Party (PDP)

Running mate (inset) Namadi Sambo

Background: Former zoology professor, Jonathan is first head of state from oil-rich Niger Delta. Enjoyed meteoric rise to power after entering politics in 1998. Thrust into presidency in 2010 following death of predecessor Umaru Musa Yar'Adua

Appeal: Electoral support lies mainly in Christian south. Pledging to tackle corruption and continue“transformation agenda” to diversify economy, create jobs, improve transport infrastructure and deal with country’s energy problems

Criticism: Administration doggedby several corruption scandals and perceived weakness in face of Boko Haram insurgency. Despite country’soil wealth, 70 percent of Nigerians live below poverty line
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Muhammadu Buhari, 72

All Progressives Congress (APC)

Running mate (inset) Yemi Osinbajo

Background: Retired general has unsuccessfully run for election three times – in 2003, 2007 and 2011. Buhari leads united opposition for first time in 2015, including several heavyweight defectors from ruling PDP party

Appeal: Muslim candidate remains popular among poor people of northern Nigeria. Promising to wipeout corruption, tackle poverty through shared economic growth and end Boko Haram insurgency within months if elected

Criticism: Buhari viewed with suspicion in parts of Christian south. His brief period of rule during 1980s following military coup is remembered for harsh anti-corruption campaignand alleged human rights abuses
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Source: Wire agencies

Pictures: Associated Press, Facebook

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