"CSOs Threaten Visa Restrictions Against Politicians Who Compromise Edo Election Integrity"
By Perpetua Onuegbu
ABUJA, NIGERIA August, 2024 - The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness (CCLCA), a coalition of civil society organizations, has vowed to push for visa restrictions against politicians who compromise the integrity of the September 21 Edo governorship election.
Dr. Gabriel Nwambu, Director-General of CCLCA, made this declaration at a news conference in Abuja, emphasizing the need for impartiality and neutrality from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Nwambu stated that the coalition would reach out to foreign embassies, including those of the US, EU, and Canada, to impose visa restrictions on errant politicians, electoral offenders, and their families globally.
He stressed the importance of INEC's commitment to fairness and transparency, ensuring that all eligible electorates receive their Permanent Voters Cards promptly.
Nwambu also called on law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and security of participants in the electoral process without fear or favor.
Additionally, he urged observers and potential voters to resist any attempts to compromise the election's integrity and called on the judiciary to remain independent and vigilant in its delivery of justice.
The Director-General denounced any plots to arrest or detain individuals on baseless grounds, emphasizing the need for network providers to ensure uninterrupted service throughout the election duration.
He appealed to all stakeholders to play by the rules set forth in the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act 2022.
Mr. Bafunsho Tunde, Chief Executive Officer of the Organisation of Justice for Equity Sustenance, also spoke, urging registered voters to collect their voter cards and turn out en masse to vote, as INEC and security agencies work to ensure a peaceful exercise.
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