Edo Diaspora for Asue/Ogie Campaign Council on Monday warned that any form of voters’ intimidation, harassment, or coercion by the law enforcement agencies, or any individual or group in Saturday election will be unacceptable.
Addressing a press conference in Benin, Edo Diaspora said they are worried over the growing concems about the intimidation of voters and the role of law enforcement agencies during this week’s Saturday Governorship election in Edo State.
According to Raymond Osaremen,
Deputy Director General, Diaspora for Asue/Ogie Campaign Council who spoke on behalf of the group,
“These concems, if left unaddressed undermines the very foundations of our democracy and the trust the people placed in our electoral system.
“First, let us be unequivocal in our position: any form of voters’ intimidation, harassment, or coercion by law enforcement agencies, or any individual or group is entirely unacceptable.
“The role of the Police and other security agencies is to protect citizens and maintain peace, and not to create fear or imanipulate the voting process in any giuse.
“We call on the Nigerian Police Force and other relevant security agencies to discharge their duties with the highest level of professionalism, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law.
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“The Police must refrain from any actions that could be perceived as intimidation or interference in the democratic rights of the people. Every eligible voter has the right to freely cast their vote without fear of harassment or reprisal, and this
rights must be upheld without compromise.
“Furthermore, we urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to continue its commitment to ensuring a fair, transparent, and credible election process.
“We believe that a strong and independent INEC is essential to the success of our democracy. The people of Edo State, and indeed all Nigerians, deserve an electoral process that is free from manipulation, corruption, and undue influence” they said..
The group also call on INEC to ensure that its officers at every level are properly trained and equipped to manage the election in a transparent manner.
“Any reports of irregularities or malpractice must be swiftly investigated, and any individuals found to be compromising the electoral process should be held accountable.
“To the people of Edo State: your vote is your voice. We urge you to remain steadfast and not be swayed by intimidation or fear. Participate fully in the democratic process, knowing that the future of our state and country rests in your hands. We encourage you to report any incidents of voters’ intimidation or malpractice to the appropriate authorities.
“We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the September 21st election coming up in Edo state this weekend is free, fair, and peaceful. We also call on all stakeholders, including law enforcement, INEC, political parties, and civil society to play their part in upholding the sanctity of our democracy” they declared.
