As the governorship election in Edo State draws near, lawyers in the state are calling for a transparent and peaceful process.
The Nigerian Bar Association, NBA Chairman, Edo branch, Mr Idemudia Iredia-Osifo said the call was apt because there had been sufficient voter sensitisation and awareness in the state.
Iredia-Osifo said there was the need for the police and security apparatus to ensure the process was not compromised.
He also called on the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to personally supervise the election and urged the Presidency to remain neutral.
‘We expect him (Egbetokun) to continue his good work and ensure a hitch-free process,’ he said.
He noted that the election provided an opportunity for the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC to show it had been neutral in all elections.
Mr Pius Oiwoh and Mrs Violet Orumwese , Chairman of International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA Edo branch, urged citizens to conduct themselves civilly and INEC should ensure citizens
were not disenfranchised.
‘INEC, the electoral umpire, must ensure that citizens are not disenfranchised, voting materials arrive early at polling Centres, and votes are counted accurately.
‘Additionally, security agencies must guarantee a peaceful election,’ Oiwoh said.
Orumwese, a former NBA chairwoman in the state, cautioned political parties against enticing voters with money or with food.
According to her, FIDA, a nongovernmental organisation, has been accredited as an election observer.
‘FIDA Edo has collaborated with other organisations to ensure women and girls’ well-being during voting are guaranteed,’ she said.
Source: Voice of Nigeria