Politics
THE Coalition for Peace and Unity (CPU), has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure level playing ground for all candidates in the March 18, Governorship and House of Assembly elections.
The CPU Protean Secretary -General, Dr Cairo Ojougboh, gave the charge while addressing a news conference on Tuesday in Asaba, Delta.
Ojougboh, said he came back to participate in the electoral process to perform his civic responsibility, like he did during the presidential elections.
“I came into Delta to witness the election and also exercise my franchise and to vote.
“But as I got into Asaba, some members of my party called my attention to happenings in the body polity of Delta state.
“I am told that a particular governorship candidate is hell bent on rigging the election on Saturday, and the candidate has compromised the relevant stakeholders in the elections.
“As CPU ambassador, I am worried because this could be a recipe for crisis.
“So, we are appealing that if there is any iota of truth in what is been alleged, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), should immediately redeploy the collation officers.
“Also, the Inspector -General of Police (IGP) should also redeploy the commissioners of police, sent to Delta,” Ojougboh said.
He said as a peace coalition, it was important to nip any crisis in the bud, to ensure a peaceful electioneering process and ensure a safer state for all citizens.
Ojougboh, a Chieftain of the All Progress Congress (APC), described his party as a party of peace, adding that, “I will not want my party to be shortchanged in the course of this election.”
“We must say that the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS) has done some wonders, the spread and the winnings in the national assembly is enough to give credit to INEC.
“It is well important that the election in Delta should be held, in absolute peace, to sustain the good works of INEC.
While calling on the people to vote candidates of their choice in the elections, Ojougboh added that all stakeholders must avoid anything that could jeopardise the election.
“Once there is a fair playing ground for all the players in the election, then nobody will complain when the results are declared.
“But as ambassadors of peace, after the elections, if you have any complain, do not take the laws into your hands, but employ the legal ways of seeking redress,” Ojuogboh said.(NAN)
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Tags: Coalition for Peace and Unity Dr Cairo Ojougboh INEC
