From Okwe Obi, Abuja
Ahead of the September 21 Edo State governorship poll, Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) and 13 civil society organisations, have charged the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) to impose visa ban on election riggers.
HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, on behalf of the CSOs, told the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to take charge of security for the election.
Onwubiko, at a press briefing in Abuja, yesterday, emphasised that the NSA, as a non-partisan figure, was best positioned to ensure the police and other security agencies remain impartial throughout the electoral process.
He said: “HURIWA requested the United States and the United Kingdom to impose visa ban on any individuals found to be involved in undermining the credibility of the Edo State governorship election.
“We urge the USA and UK governments to take decisive action by imposing visa ban on any person or group attempting to compromise this election. International pressure is vital to ensuring accountability and upholding democratic principles.
“Edo State is at a crossroad and the upcoming election will determine the future of its governance. We must not allow any form of compromise or malpractice to mar this critical process. We are calling on the international community to stand with the people of Edo and ensure that their right to vote is protected.”
He said the call became expedient following the refusal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to redeploy the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Anugbum Onuoha, who is alleged to have close ties with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He wondered why the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has refused to redeploy the police commissioner, despite the hue and cry by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over alleged compromise. “We are calling on INEC to reconsider its stance on this matter. The refusal to redeploy Mr. 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,” he said.
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