Osun west by-election: Don’t be intimidated – Group tells electorate

A non-governmental organization, Centre for Credible Election and Citizenship Awareness has advised voters in Osun West senatorial district to shun all forms of intimidation in the upcoming July 8 by-election.
The call was made in Osogbo on Wednesday.

The Director General of the centre, Dr Gabriel Nwambu called on voters in the election to shun all forms of intimidations from any quarter, and exercise their franchise freely.
Nwanmbu disclosed that the opinion poll conducted by the organisation revealed that some political parties were desperate to win at all cost, which invariably created fear in the minds of the electorate.
The organisation, which was one of the 7 NGOs accredited by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to observe the Osun West by-election, opined that the seeming tensed political atmosphere portended a serious danger of political apathy.

“The atmosphere in Osun west has been tensed with political activities, as news are making headlines across the state especially in the social media that a particular political party has all arrangements to manipulate the electoral process by subverting the power of the ballot and the will of the electorates.

“Our opinion poll has also showed that some politicians who are threatening to win at all cost including the use of violence has ignited fear on some electorates who rather than being hurt during election, prefer to remain at home without casting their ballot.
“We hereby advise politicians to play by the rules as the electoral management body, the security agencies and the observers are more determined to work together in ensuring that perpetrators of electoral related offenses are brought to book.

“Electorate and individuals who dwell in Osun west senatorial district as well the contigual LGAs and state are hereby advised to keep away from thuggery and snatching of ballot boxes during the election.
“Once again, we wish to advise our brothers and sisters that the long arm of the law would catch up with anyone or group of persons who attempt to circumvent our electoral process bringing to bare, equity, fairness and and the rule of law enroute a transparent, free, fair and credible elections in Nigeria”, he said.