In the governorship elections in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo states coming up on November 11, 2023, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called for peace.

At the quarterly meeting with political parties on October 24, 2023, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu announced the decision.

Yakubu urged political parties to uphold peace throughout the election process and on election day, noting that free and fair elections may occur in a calm setting.

He said, “The Commission reiterates its worry regarding the outbreak of violence in the three States involving parties and candidates as electioneering campaigns continue to heat up. 

As party leaders, I want to remind you that a peaceful environment is necessary for free and fair elections. Since human beings are involved in the election process as voters, election officials, observers, and the media, we are highly concerned about their safety.

The political parties, acting individually or jointly through the Inter-Party Advisory Council, have a duty to urge their members, candidates, and supporters to maintain peace during the campaign rallies and procession, even though we will continue to work with the security agencies in this regard. On Election Day and beyond, I implore you to make the same plea to them.

In the same line, Yabagi Sani, the chairman of IPAC, stated that INEC must continue to exhibit impartiality, transparency, and a commitment to holding free, fair, and credible elections to reaffirm voters’ confidence.

“Not only is this a moral requirement, but it is also a crucial step in maintaining the integrity of our democratic system. 

“Despite evident obstacles, there is no denying that INEC is making every effort to prepare. However, according to Sani, much more work needs to be done to ensure that Nigerian elections are flawless, credible, and significantly in compliance with the contentious 2022 electoral laws.

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He further urged INEC to exert great effort in convincing the security forces to adhere to the norms of engagement and avoid the temptation to be exploited by desperate politicians.

The Chairman stated, “The participation of security agencies in the electoral process, when unavailable, must be based on professionalism, neutrality, and a commitment to defending our democracy, rather than partisan interests. 

“The current precarious level of insecurity in the nation, particularly in the three states where the November 11, 2023, off-season elections will take place, poses a severe threat to the citizens’ full participation in the exercise.