From Our Correspondent
The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA) has appealed to stakeholders to adhere to ethical conduct and respect human rights during the Sept. 21 Edo governorship election.
TheNewsZenith reports that the Director-General of CCLCA, Dr Gabriel Nwambu, made the call in a statement in Abuja.
CCLCA is a coalition of INEC-accredited observer organisations.
Nwambu said that the alliance is concerned about recent reports by election observers alleging unlawful arrests and detention of members in the build-up to the Edo election.
“These actions are perceived as unethical, aimed at weakening the ruling party and stifling their ability to participate in the upcoming governorship election in the state.
“As INEC-accredited observer organisations, we must advocate for credible, transparent, free elections.
“There must be an atmosphere where all citizens can exercise their democratic rights without fear or coercion.
“We are, therefore, urgently notifying the Inspection-General of Police and head of the Department of State Services,” he said.
The DG urged the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Military to ensure that their personnel comply with ethical standards.
Read Related News:
- INEC accredits 229 groups, 146,913 election observers
- Guber poll: Yakubu charges INEC staff on patriotism
- Imo Guber poll: INEC trains voter education providers
- INEC to prosecute 200 suspected electoral offenders
- IG assures Nigerians of unhindered Saturday polls
They must as a necessity, respect the fundamental human rights of all individuals.
Nwambu specifically pleaded with Egbetokun, to take decisive action to release all persons unlawfully arrested and detained in Edo.
He said those actions were contrary to the principles of democracy and a violation of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Nwambu said all security agencies needed to embrace the rule of engagement in line with global best practices.
“This is also in line with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“This is crucial for upholding the credibility of the electoral process and ensuring the preservation of peace and stability in Edo.
“CCLCA reiterates its commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and the rule of law in all electoral processes.
“We call upon all relevant authorities to address this urgent matter, providing a level playing field for all political parties and citizens to exercise their rights.
Do you have a flair for Citizenship Journalism? Share stories of happenings in your area with TheNewsZenith on WhatsApp: 08033668669 or thenewszenithonline@gmail.com. Follow us on www.tiktok.com/@thenewszenithonline. Also, visit, subscribe and like our videos on YouTube
