Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has urged security agencies in the country to be more vigilant ahead of the off-season governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States.
The INEC Chairman made the appeal on Wednesday at a meeting of the Inter-agency Consultative Committee on Election Security ( ICCES).
Yakubu who cautioned candidates and their spokespersons against negative rhetorics, also told the gathering of the representatives of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, of alleged orchestrated plot by non-state actors to disrupt the elections.
He said: “Electioneering campaigns by political parties are ongoing. This is usually a time of concern and anxiety about security as political parties canvass for votes. A peaceful campaign often heralds a peaceful election. I urge political parties, candidates and their supporters to maintain the peace as we approach the election day and beyond. Party and campaign spokespersons should tone down the negative rhetoric.
“For the security agencies, this is the time to be more vigilant. You should leave no stone unturned in dealing with any real or potential threat to the conduct of peaceful and transparent elections. Already, concerns have been expressed about the possibility of armed state and non-state actors disrupting the processes. With just 37 days to the Edo State governorship election and 93 days before voters in Ondo State go to the polls, we should continue to work together to ensure that the training of election officials, logistics for the movement of personnel and materials, polling and collation activities are not disrupted in any way.
“I must also add that in doing so, all your personnel should continue to abide by the code and conduct and rules of engagement for security personnel on electoral duty.”
The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu who was represented by Hassan Y Abdullahi, Director, Internal Security, warned those planning to instigate violence in the two states to stay away while he assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was Committee to free, fair transparent electoral process.
He said: “The governorship election in Edo State is about a month away, and campaigns have begun in earnest, albeit with pockets of inter and intra-party squabbles. Accordingly, given the violent antecedents of some politicians and their supporters in the State, the NSA, who doubles as the Co-Chair of ICCES has warned that any attempt to undermine, interfere with, or disrupt the peaceful conduct of the polls would be viewed as an assault on the very essence of our democratic values. We want to reassure you, that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to peaceful election is unwavering.
“Those planning to disrupt the elections should not mistake the current administration’s commitment to peace for weakness. We will defend the integrity of the polls using every lawful means at our disposal, and anyone attempting to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections will face the full force of the law. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert and ready to swiftly and decisively deal with anyone trying to undermine the polls.
“To the voters in Edo State, you are encouraged to vote confidently, knowing that the government is standing with you and is determined to protect your voice. Your role in promptly reporting any suspicious activities or threats to the authorities is crucial. Together, our vigilance and unity will prevent any attempts to undermine the polls.
“To our security forces and election officials, your dedication and integrity are crucial. As the guardians of our democracy, you must ensure that every ballot is protected, every voter feels safe, and the sanctity of the election is upheld.
“Finally, let’s move forward knowing that together we are stronger and that we will protect the peaceful conduct of the Edo State governorship election on September 21st, 2024.”
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