A civil rights group, under the aegis of Talakawas, has charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a credible, transparent, free, and fair governorship election in Edo State to prevent a political crisis.
The group also called on the police to uphold their responsibilities, as outlined in the constitution and the Police Act, by providing security for voters and other stakeholders during the election.
Kola Edokpayi, President of the Talakawas Parliament, made this known in a statement on Saturday in Benin, stressing that adequate security would allow the people to cast their votes without fear or intimidation.
Expressing concern over the proliferation of arms in the state, Edokpayi urged security agencies to immediately disarm those with illegal firearms.
He also warned “desperate politicians” to refrain from inciting discord and violence.
“The political class must recognize that power is transient. Elections are not declarations of war. Let brotherly love prevail,” Edokpayi stated.
He condemned the arming of people to cause violence and called for peace, saying, “It would be foolish to remain silent amid the brewing political tension.”
The group also called on the police to uphold their responsibilities, as outlined in the constitution and the Police Act, by providing security for voters and other stakeholders during the election.
Kola Edokpayi, President of the Talakawas Parliament, made this known in a statement on Saturday in Benin, stressing that adequate security would allow the people to cast their votes without fear or intimidation.
Expressing concern over the proliferation of arms in the state, Edokpayi urged security agencies to immediately disarm those with illegal firearms.
He also warned “desperate politicians” to refrain from inciting discord and violence.
“The political class must recognize that power is transient. Elections are not declarations of war. Let brotherly love prevail,” Edokpayi stated.
He condemned the arming of people to cause violence and called for peace, saying, “It would be foolish to remain silent amid the brewing political tension.”
Edokpayi also urged eligible voters with Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to turn out en masse to cast their vote on September 21.
