Mr Omar Jallow, alias O.J., an outspoken politician, leaves Banjul today for Nigeria. Mr Jallow, one of a group of 12 Commonwealth-appointed Observers to the Nigerian elections, is expected to monitor the 2007 Nigerian presidential elections.

A letter addressed to Mr Jallow by Florence Mugasha, Deputy Secretary-General of Commonwealth, states that the group has been established by the Commonwealth Secretary-General at the request of the Independent National Electoral Commission of Nigeria. The mission is to observe relevant aspects of the organization and conduct of the general elections, in accordance with the laws of Nigeria, the letter states.

The group will be supported by a staff team of seven persons led by Mr Amitou Banerji, office of the Secretary- General, Commonwealth Secretariat.

Speaking to The Point at his Pipeline residence, Mr Jallow expressed appreciation with the development and assured that he would act impartially and independently in carrying out his mission as mandated.