With rampant killings in Imo State turning the eastern heartland into a Somalia of sorts, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, says the level of violence and insecurity is not only “unacceptable, unnecessary and worrisome”, but also capable of leading to voters apathy due to fear.
The INEC National Commissioner and member Information and Voter Education Committee, IVEC, Mallam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, raised the alarm yesterday, at a one-day workshop organized for media executives in Owerri, by the Commission.
He also said the same was the case for Kogi State.
Haruna said INEC had gone so far with its preparedness for the off-cycle elections in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa States, but noted that “the Commission is truly worried about the growing level of insecurity and violence, in Kogi and Imo States. This is unacceptable, unnecessary and most worrisome.”
He added, “Campaigns in Kogi State, has been violent and this is most unfortunate. Our political gladiators and indeed, all citizens, must work towards ensuring free, fair and credible elections.
“It stands to reason that if this situation is allowed to continue, there is the likelihood that people will be afraid to come out to vote, on the election day.
“Already, INEC is having a shortfall in the number of ad-hoc staff needed to superintend over the forthcoming elections.”
On physically challenged voters, the INEC National Commissioner revealed that efforts have been made at improving and easing access for persons living with disabilities and other marginalized groups, to participate in elections.
“The Commission has provided braille ballot papers for visually impaired voters, made available magnifying glasses for people with albinism and introduced enlarged posters, for voters with hearing impairment.
“We have gone further to integrate into the voting procedure, a process that accords priority voting for persons living with disabilities, vulnerable people like the elderly, pregnant and nursing mothers.”
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