Abuja: A Coalition of Civil Society Organisations for Credible Elections has appealed for diplomatic engagement from the United States of America and the British Government to support a credible governorship election in Osun. The appeal is contained in a petition addressed to the US Ambassador in Nigeria and made available to newsmen after a briefing at the US embassy on Friday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the petition was signed by IgweUde-Umanta, Coordinator of Empowerment For Unemployed Youth Initiative, and Tijani Shehu, Coordinator of Northern Youth Leadership Alliance. Another signatory to the petition was Danesi Momoh, Director-General of Citizens For Good Governance, Rule of Law and Anti Corruption Initiative. Momoh, who read the petition to newsmen on behalf of others, stated that the coalition was committed to democracy and emphasized the importance of maintaining public trust in democratic institutions through credible elections.
Momoh noted that a threat to credible elections in Osun po
sed a threat to democracy in Nigeria and by extension, Africa. He highlighted the coalition’s belief in diplomatic engagement to uphold democratic standards, reduce tensions, prevent violence, and encourage adherence to constitutional norms. The coalition expressed concerns about the political environment ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Osun and appealed for a peaceful, transparent, and credible electoral process.
The coalition called on the Federal Government and all political parties to ensure that the electoral process in Osun was conducted peacefully and in accordance with the constitution and applicable laws, providing a level-playing field for all candidates. Momoh urged political actors to avoid violence, intimidation, and misuse of security agencies and public institutions. He also appealed to relevant institutions, including electoral and security agencies, to act with professionalism, impartiality, and respect for citizens’ rights.
Momoh stressed the importance of monitoring deve
lopments surrounding the elections and engaging relevant Nigerian authorities to promote peaceful and democratic outcomes. He expressed trust in the mission’s continued support for Nigeria’s democratic institutions while respecting its sovereignty. Momoh concluded by expressing the coalition’s readiness to provide further information or engage in constructive dialogue on the matter.