Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has tasked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and all security agencies deployed to Ekiti State ahead of the forthcoming governorship election to ensure a free and fair contest.
The umbrella body of all the registered political parties and associations in Nigeria also called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), the media and all election observers in the state to be extra vigilant and expose all forms of rigging in order to save Nigeria’s democracy as the outcome would determine the confidence of voters in the conduct of the 2019 general election.
In a statement signed by elder statesman and the national chairman of CNPP, Alhaji Balarabe Musa, the coalition urged politicians in the state to play by the rules of the game.
“We must remind ourselves that the survival of democracy is vital at this time and for this to happen, all stakeholder must subject themselves to the ultimate will of the electorate.
“Therefore, INEC, the media, and all security agencies, as well as election observers for the forthcoming Ekiti State governorship election, must be vigilant.
“We urge the electoral umpire to ensure that the outcome of the Ekiti State election reflects the virtues of fairness, a good conscience, rule of law and credibility.
“This will not only boost the confidence of the electorates in the Nigerian electoral process but also elevate the rating of the current leadership of INEC as the country prepares for the 2019 general election.
“At no time in the history of the country has the young people shown eagerness to fully participate in the electoral process than now. It is the duty of INEC and the security agencies to reassure voters that their votes count in order to determine who leads them.
“We equally appeal to politicians, especially the candidates in the Ekiti governorship election to play according to the rules and allow the electorate to choose who governs them without intimidation in an atmosphere of peace, devoid of any form of thuggery,” the CNPP concluded.
