By Osaiyekemwen Confidence
The Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations (CONGOs) has called for a peaceful and fair electoral process ahead of the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024. Speaking at a press conference in Benin City, Comrade Dr. Bartholomew Okoudo, President of CONGOs, addressed key issues affecting the electoral climate in the state.
Dr. Okoudo highlighted concerns over the alleged arrest and isolation of political party leaders and members by security agencies. He also condemned the use of thugs by political parties to intimidate opponents, warning that such actions could undermine the credibility of the election and lead to post-election conflicts.
“The arrest and intimidation of political opponents must be stopped to ensure a better electoral expression in the Edo Governorship election,” said Dr. Okoudo. “Actions that negatively impact the electoral process are inimical to the final outcome of the election and erode the acceptance of the political structure that emerges.”
Dr. Okoudo also criticized the recent arrests of members of the Edo State Security Corps by the Nigeria Police, calling for their immediate release unless they are found culpable of any crime. He emphasized the importance of the police and other security agencies maintaining impartiality and professionalism to ensure a peaceful election.
“We call on the Inspector General of Police to immediately release members of the State Security Corps arrested in Edo State, or if culpable, they should be charged to court,” he said. “The Nigeria Police must make deliberate efforts to carry the people of Edo State along in their activities, especially concerning arrests, to foster peace and security as we count down to September 21.”
The CONGOs president also urged all stakeholders, including the President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, to ensure no interference in the upcoming elections. He called on all political parties and their supporters to exercise restraint and allow the election to proceed in an atmosphere of peace and orderliness.
“At this time of national distress, anything that could heat up the polity must be resisted by all stakeholders,” Dr. Okoudo stated. “Those who seek to create confusion and bad blood for personal gains must desist from using ordinary citizens for selfish purposes.”
He concluded by urging Edo State citizens and residents to maintain peace and decorum during the election period, emphasizing that the elections are in the overall interest of the people and for the common good of all Nigerians.
“Edo State citizens have the capacity and the wisdom to choose a governor of their choice. This choice must be allowed to be expressed in an atmosphere of peace and orderliness,” Dr. Okoudo concluded.
The press conference ended with a commitment from CONGOs to continue monitoring the electoral process and engage with the public and security agencies to ensure a smooth and credible election.
