… Demands Peaceful, free and fair Poll in Imo, Kogi, Bayelsa
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), has staged a peaceful protest to the Independent Electoral Commission in Abuja, INEC headquarters on October 25, 2023.
The protesters marched to the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja to express their concerns and demands for the forthcoming elections in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi States.
HURIWA’s National Coordinator Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, who led the protest delivered a statement outlining four key areas that are essential for ensuring peaceful and fair elections: transparency and accountability; security and safety; transparency in collation and announcement of results; voter education and sensitization.
The group also called on INEC to investigate allegations against the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Imo State who is alleged to be related to Mr. Emma Eneukwu – Deputy National Chairman South East All Progressives Congress (APC) -and replace her if necessary.
Onwubiko emphasized that these elections were critical for consolidating democracy while protecting human rights in Nigeria.
“We are here today to make our voice heard and to urge INEC to uphold the highest standards of electoral integrity in the upcoming elections in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi States. These elections are critical for the consolidation of democracy and the protection of human rights in Nigeria. We demand that INEC ensures that every eligible voter can cast their ballot without fear or intimidation, and that every vote count and is counted.”
HURIWA appealed to INEC officials to take their demands seriously as they work with all stakeholders towards conducting free, fair & peaceful polls come election day.
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