[ICYMI] Edo, Ondo gov elections: Opportunity for INEC, Police to redeem image
JOHN ALECHENU reviews concerns being raised by stakeholders about the violence and breach of electoral laws which characterised the Bayelsa and Kogi governorship elections in 2019 and submits that the 2020 Ondo and Edo governorship polls provide an opportunity for INEC and the police to redeem their images
Coordinated attacks on voters by hoodlums while armed security personnel watched elatedly, was common place. A lot of these incidents were caught on camera. Yet, the security agents refused to arrest them. Speaking in a similar vein, YIAGA Africa, a public policy think-tank, also said violence and malpractices characterised the conduct of the Kogi governorship and senatorial elections.
He also asked INEC to investigate the conduct of the Kogi governorship and senatorial elections. The activist said, “We are deeply worried and concerned about this emerging trend in electoral manipulation and the deepening culture of impunity. Failure to institutionally and decisively act could undermine our democracy.
It was only at Kogi Central, which is the governor’s senatorial district that was spared from massive violence. But menacing thugs stood on guard in the polling units to warn voters against daring to vote for anyone other than Yahaya Bello.” Observations and comments being made by some state major stakeholders ahead of the Edo and Ondo elections, is however raising fresh concerns.
On its part, the election management body, INEC, has continued to maintain that it is prepared to ensure a hitch free election. “Therefore, the media needs to focus on the real culprits when elections are disrupted. INEC does not rig elections or organise violence. Our personnel are trained to master our processes and procedures and ensure that the election we conduct at any point in time is free, fair and credible.
Nigeria Latest News, Nigeria Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Gunmen abduct JAMB applicant in Ondo, as investigative team takes over Ile-Oluji robbery – Daily TrustGunmen suspected to be kidnappers have abducted a 20-year-old applicant for the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board examination at Igbara Oke, in Ifedore Local Government, Ondo State. A police officer, who chose to remain anonymous, yesterday told our correspondent in Akure that the gunmen abducted the victim, whom he identified as Samuel Abayomi, on Monday. …
Read more »
Uncertainty over Ondo LG polls as PDP withdraws participation - Premium Times NigeriaUncertainty over Ondo LG polls as PDP withdraws participation
Read more »
Protest in Ondo over killing of man by bullion van
Read more »
Gunmen abduct children, Catholic priest in Edo
Read more »
Gunmen abducts children, Catholic priest in Edo - The Nation NigeriaA Catholic Priest serving at the Uromi Diocese, Father Nicholas Oboh, has been abducted by gunmen in Benin City. Chancellor Uromi diocese...
Read more »
INEC Releases New Bayelsa Governorship Election Result, Excludes APCINEC Releases New Bayelsa Governorship Election Result, Excludes APC
Read more »