Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, has urged the Federal Government and institutions to ensure that the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states are conducted freely and fairly. He emphasized that the international community is closely monitoring the elections, and Nigeria’s global reputation is at stake.
Anyaoku made these remarks in an interview, highlighting that the credibility of the elections will reflect on how Nigeria is perceived internationally. He advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and other relevant bodies to act impartially, ensuring transparency and fairness.
He praised INEC’s previous efforts in conducting credible elections but urged the commission to maintain its integrity, stating that the results should genuinely reflect the will of the people.
EDO GOVERNOR RAISES ALARM ON SECURITY PLOTS
Meanwhile, Edo State government raised concerns about potential security breaches ahead of the September 21 election. The Commissioner for Communication, Chris Nehikhare, alleged a plot to withdraw Governor Godwin Obaseki’s security details, alongside plans to disrupt voting in riverine communities. The government accused opposition leaders of mobilizing militants to manipulate the elections.
The opposition, represented by the All Progressives Congress (APC), denied the claims, with one leader threatening legal action against Nehikhare for the allegations. The police, led by DIG Frank Mba, dismissed the accusations, confirming that while security details would not accompany Obaseki to the polling center, they would remain assigned to him.
Both state and federal authorities continue to prepare for the elections, amidst these rising tensions.