Osun 2018: Observer Groups Commend INEC For Commitment Towards Conducting Credible Election

Civil Society Domestic Observer Groups, accredited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for Osun governorship election, on Thursday, commended INEC and security agents for their commitment in ensuring a credible and transparent election in Osun.

The group, during a pre-election press conference held in Osogbo, said INEC in collaboration with the various security agencies in the state had given assurances of providing a secure and peaceful environment for the election.

Mr Kalu Victor, the Team Leader of the groups said, after the concluded of a two weeks pre-election exercise, their findings revealed that INEC was resolute, transparent and committed to conducting a credible, free and fair governorship election in the state.

Victor said the commission had shown through it’s action and given assurances that it would provide a level playing ground for all the participating political parties in the state and that INEC was not under pressure, whatsoever, to compromise the system by favoring a particular party/candidate.

“The actions and conducts of INEC, to the best of our knowledge, are so far guided by the Electoral Acts and these set standards for the election which had also been made known by all parties and stakeholders.

“Our team commends the electoral umpire of the state for its wonderful preparation for credible, transparent; violent-free and fair gubernatorial Elections in the State in accordance with our relevant Electoral Laws.

“The level of preparedness of INEC towards ensuring credible and
transparent elections in Osun, especially in providing a level playing ground for all political parties participating in the
election is hereby commended.

“The readiness of the electorates for the election;- Level of voter awareness for the election is highly appreciated.” he said

He said observer groups would however recommend that the various security agents on election duty to Osun should be well sensitised on their conducts and relationship with the people and other election duty personnel.

He also urge the security agents never to lose focus but rather remain resolute in safeguarding lives and property even after the elections.

He said the government, political parties/all political stakeholders and INEC should engage committed Civil Society groups on an intensive civic
voter education, for sensitization and mobilization ahead of the Osun
election.

He said this action would go a long way in encouraging voter participation in
elections particularly in the grassroots.

He pleaded with all stakeholders in the state to join hands with INEC in ensuring a credible and transparent election in the state while also calling on the electorate to shun and resist all attempts and temptations of selling their votes to overzealous politician ready to buy votes by all means