The Asue/Ogie Diaspora Campaign Council has decried the role of law enforcement agencies in the intimidation of voters ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State.
The Council’s Deputy Director-General Raymond Osaremen on Monday said during a press briefing in Benin the Edo State capit that if the trend was left unaddressed, this could undermine “the very foundations of our democracy and the trust the people placed in our electoral system.”
He said any form of voter intimidation, harassment, or coercion by law enforcement agencies, or any individual or group is entirely unacceptable to the Council.
“The role of the police and other security agencies is to protect citizens and maintain peace, and not to create fear or manipulate the voting process in any guise.
“We call on the Nigerian Police Force and other relevant security agencies to discharge their duties with the highest level of professionalism, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law. The Police must refrain from any actions that could be perceived as intimidation or interference in the democratic rights of the people,” he said.
Osaremen said every eligible voter has the right to cast his or her vote freely without fear of harassment or reprisal, stressing that this right must be upheld without compromise.
The Council urged the Independent National Electoral Commission ,INEC, to discharge its role of ensuring free and fair elections.
“We believe that a strong and independent INEC is essential to the success of our democracy.
“The people of Edo State — and indeed all Nigerians — deserve an electoral process that is free from manipulation, corruption, and undue influence.
“We also call on INEC to ensure that its officers at every level are properly trained and equipped to manage the election in a transparent manner.
“Any reports of irregularities or malpractice must be swiftly investigated, and any individuals found to be compromising the electoral process should be held accountable.
“Participate fully in the democratic process, knowing that the future of our state and country rests in your hands.
“We encourage you to report any incidents of voters’ intimidation or malpractice to the appropriate authorities.
“We reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that the September 21st election coming up in Edo state this weekend is free, fair, and peaceful. We call on all stakeholders — including law enforcement, INEC, political parties, and civil society — to play their part in upholding the sanctity of our democracy,” he said.
