FRI, OCT 27 2023-theGBJournal|The National Security Adviser (NSA), Alhaji Nuhu Ribadu, emphasized the importance of ensuring fairness and security in the upcoming off-cycle Governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States.
Ribadu spoke today while addressing members of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES) at the Conference Room, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Abuja, today.
The gathering was to assess the level of preparedness for the upcoming off-cycle Governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States, with particular focus on logistics and security.
At the meeting were Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, the INEC National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, the Director-General of the Electoral Institute, Chairman Aides, Directors of the Commission and other staff of Commission.
In his address, Alhaji Nuhu Ribadu underscored the role security plays in upholding the integrity of elections.
‘‘Our message to politicians is that they should call their candidates and supporters to order. Violence and other undemocratic activities such as vote buying, attacks on election officials and disruption of the electoral process must stop,” Ribadu said.
According to Ribadu, ultimate responsibility for election security lies with the security agencies.
”Our message also to the security agencies is to take decisive action against perpetrators of electoral violence. This is the surest way to guarantee a safe environment for the peaceful conduct of elections and electoral activities.
In doing so, security personnel on electoral duty should remain neutral and committed to the established professional code of conduct and rules of engagement.”
He noted that extensive preparations have been made for elections.
”Our primary objective is to conduct elections that are not only free but also trustworthy and peaceful. We commit to strict adherence to the established regulations for these elections,” Ribadu said.
The NSA also conveyed the commitment of the President to a free and fair election which will be devoid of interference, violence, or intimidation.
NSA added, “we are resolute in providing all the necessary elements to ensure a flawless election, for the Governorship Election.
The elections are scheduled for November 11, 2023.
The three States have 5,409,438 registered voters out of which 5,169,692 have collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs).
Eligible voters will vote in all the 10,510 polling units.
However, there are two polling units in Bayelsa State and 38 in Imo State without registered voters.
X-@theGBJournal|Facebook-the Government and Business Journal|email:gbj@govbusinessjournal.com| govandbusinessj@gmail.com
