The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), a civil rights advocacy group, has called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to assume control of security operations during the Edo State governorship election.
News About Nigeria reports that Edo state gubernatorial election is scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Emmanuel Onwubiko, national coordinator of HURIWA, explained how nonpartisan participation from security operatives can maintain a peaceful and fair voting process.
Onwubiko expressed concerns about the local police’s impartiality, alleging the Edo State Commissioner of Police is biased towards the APC and intimidating PDP leaders through targeted arrests.
“We are calling on the NSA to take immediate and direct control of security operations for the Edo 2024 elections,” he said.
“Given the compromised state of the Edo Police Command and the allegations surrounding its leadership, a non-partisan body must take charge to prevent any form of manipulation or undue influence.
“The Nigerian people deserve an election that is free from fear, coercion, or intimidation.”
Onwubiko also slammed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for keeping Anugbum Onuoha, Edo REC, after known ties to Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
“We urge INEC to reconsider its stance on this matter,” HURIWA said.
“The refusal to redeploy the REC Onuoha raises serious questions about the commission’s commitment to conducting a credible election in Edo State. INEC’s reputation is on the line, and the Nigerian people deserve an election that is transparent and free of external influences.”
