Edo Guber: CONGOS calls for Fair, Peaceful Election
2 min read
Edo Guber: CONGOS calls for Fair, Peaceful Election
By Joy Richardson
Benin City, August 30, 2024 – As the Edo State Governorship Election scheduled for September 21, 2024, draws nearer, the Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations (CONGOS) has called for a peaceful, fair, and transparent electoral process, during a press briefing held today in Benin city.
Comrade Dr. Bartholomew Okoudo, President of CONGOS, expressed deep concerns about the escalating political tensions and the role of security agencies in the upcoming election.
In his address, Dr. Okoudo highlighted several critical issues threatening the integrity of the election. Chief among these concerns is the alleged arrest and intimidation of members of a political party by security agencies, which he warned could lead to widespread unrest if not addressed. Dr. Okoudo emphasized that such actions undermine the democratic process and erode public trust in the election outcome.
He urged the Nigerian Police and other security agency, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to act with impartiality and uphold the rule of law. “If the police force, who are the custodians of our peace and security, are perceived to have taken sides with one of the parties in the election, it will significantly undermine our efforts towards achieving nationhood and contribute to the underdevelopment of Nigeria,” Dr. Okoudo stated.
The press briefing also touched on the role of state security outfits, which Dr. Okoudo acknowledged are meant to complement the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force. However, he expressed concern over the recent arrests and detention of some members of the Edo State Security Corps urging the Inspector General of Police to release them or charge them to court if they are found culpable of any crime.
Dr. Okoudo further appealed to all political stakeholders to refrain from actions that could inflame the already tense political atmosphere.
He stressed that the responsibility for a peaceful election lies with all parties involved, including the electorate, who should be allowed to exercise their voting rights freely and without intimidation.
CONGOS reiterated its commitment to monitoring the electoral process and ensuring that it reflects the will of the people of Edo State. The organization called on all security agencies to provide the necessary attention and sophistication to secure the election process, ensuring that the outcome is credible and widely accepted.
The press briefing was attended by notable figures, including the immediate past president of the CONGOS, Comrade Mrs Igaga Daisy, Lady Taiye Agbontaen, Vice-President CONGOS, Comrade Ugiagbe Osamuyime, Director of Administration, Comrade Imafidon Osazee Elvis, and Comrade Festus Alenkhe from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
