As the Edo State governorship election approaches on September 21, 2024, stakeholders are intensifying preparations to ensure a credible, free, and fair electoral process.
Key players, including observer groups, security agencies, citizens, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), are working together to guarantee a smooth election.
The Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA) has been actively engaged in preparations, hosting a stakeholders’ roundtable with security chiefs, INEC, media, professional associations, and civil society.
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by Faith Nwadishi, it Executive Director, the center said they’ve conducted training for 50 observers to be deployed across the 18 local government areas and will open a Situation Room in Benin for real-time report collation and analysis.
It also disclosed that security measures have been bolstered, with the Nigeria Police Force deploying 35,000 personnel, assisted by sister agencies, and a marine unit to handle security challenges along waterways.
The CTA also said that INEC’s Resident Electoral Commissioner has assured Nigerians of the commission’s preparedness to conduct a free, fair, and credible election.
The center however regretted, that recent violent conflicts, intimidation, and attacks against political opponents have raised concerns. The CTA strongly condemned the actions and urged parties to cease violence, respect opponents’ rights, and adopt nonviolent campaign strategies.
The center advised political parties and backers to respect opponents’ rights and adopt nonviolent strategies. It also urged security agencies to guarantee objectivity, expertise, and timely reaction to violent occurrences.
The CTA said it would continue to monitor the situation, holding stakeholders accountable for their actions. It called on all Nigerians to advocate for peaceful elections and defend democratic values devoid of violence.
