Successful and credible poll can be achieved by giving peace a chance – INEC begs Kogi politicians

Kogi politicians have been pleaded with by Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC’s chairman, to allow for a peaceful, successful, and legitimate governorship election on November 11.

The appeal was made by the INEC on Tuesday in Lokoja during a one-day stakeholders’ conference.

Getting a leader for the state is critical to its success, according to Yakubu, who was represented by Prof. Sani Adam, the National Commissioner overseeing the Kogi, Kwara, and Niger States.

Therefore, in order to assist us in conducting a successful, peaceful, and credible election on November 11, you must play by the rules as the responsible and mature politicians that you are.

“INEC is prepared to conduct the gubernatorial election; however, in order to do so, we require your cooperation and support in adhering to the laws and guidelines that regulate elections throughout the nation.

“President Bola Tinubu is strongly supporting us to ensure that the off-cycle elections in the states of Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa transpire smoothly on Saturday, November 11.

We think that the present is really different from the past. Indeed, since God is the one who bestows power, the best candidate will win with your help and support,” he declared.

The head of INEC also urged voters to cast ballots in large numbers, citing guarantees from security personnel that there would be sufficient security to ensure a peaceful election process.

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Before, during, and after the election, citizens were also given the assurance of sufficient protection by Mr. Bethrand Onuoha, the state commissioner of police.

Troublemakers, particularly political thugs, were cautioned by Onuoha not to do anything amusing in relation to the election, as “security operatives are battle ready to deal with them.”

“You don’t use matches and firearms to intimidate people into voting for you in an election. Such individuals will face the full force of the law.

“We hope for a successful and peaceful election in Kogi. Politicians must so follow the rules of the game or face consequences.

The police head stated, “We will all continue to be residents after the election, so the traditional rulers should assist us in talking to their subjects to maintain peace throughout the election period.”

On his part, Mr. Sam Ranti-Abenemi, the running partner for the SDP governorship, voiced concerns about the behaviour of certain security officers towards certain party stakeholders and urged prudence to avoid sending the wrong message to the locals.

Ranti-Abenemi demanded sufficient protection and equitable treatment for all citizens in order to ensure a calm, legitimate, and successful poll in Kogi on November 11.

NAN