2023: INEC Worried Over Nationwide Insecurity Ahead https://nporeports.com/2023-inec-worried-over-nationwide-insecurity-ahead/
The Independent National Electoral Commission has expressed worries over the 2023 general elections
Chairman of the commission, Prof Mahmud Yakubu said this at the second quarterly meeting with it’s stakeholders.
He added: “The general security situation in the country and its impact on the electoral process is a source of concern to the Commission. However, we are confident that with nine months to the 2023 General Election, there is enough time to respond to the security challenges and secure the nation for elections to take place nationwide. The timetable for the election has also been released. Let us not wait until a few weeks to the election before we realise that time is not on our side and begin to seek for extension of timelines. The time to act is now.”
The National Security Adviser (NSA) and Co-Chairman of ICCES, Major General Babagana Monguno (rtd) also expressed deep concern over “the growing uncertainty heralding the conduct of party primaries for the 2023 elections (and) the unabated spate of violence threatening the upcoming off cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, arising from internal party wranglings, increasing acrimony and bickering amongst political actors as well as the inability of various contending political blocs to amicably resolve their differences in line with democratic tenets.”
Represented by Mr Sanusi Galadima, the NSA observed that the “disturbing development has culminated in intense power play capable of heightening unnecessary political tension across the country.”
His continued: “More worrisome is the unguarded utterances of some highly respected individuals and groups which, more often than not, amplify divisive narratives to the detriment of national security and stability.
“Accordingly, heads of security and law enforcement agencies have been tasked to step up close monitoring and profiling of political actors, no matter how highly placed, who exhibit tendencies to subvert the electoral process, even as thugs and their sponsors would equally be trailed for possible arrest and prosecution.”
He emphasised the need for the Commission to impress it on the political parties to consistently abide by prescribed rules as outlined in their respective manifestoes.”