Observer Group Gives Thumps Up For Governorship Poll In Three States

By Ayodele Oni

Despite complaints ranging from vote buying, pre- prepared results and pockets of violence, a Civil Society Organisation, (CSO), Connected Development has expressed satisfaction with the conduct of Saturday’s election in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo states.

It commended the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) and the security agencies for their roles in the conduct of the governorship polls in the three states.

Head of the elections situation room, CODE, Emmanuel Njoku, who spoke on behalf of his team in Lokoja, Kogi State on Saturday, noted that with its electoral officers sent across the three states, INEC officials arrived on time and voting in most polling units was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere.

“I want to commend the efforts of the Independent National Electoral Commission, our diligent security operatives, and the people and government of these three states, for their unwavering commitment to a free, fair and credible electoral process.

“We want to commend the INEC for the early deployment of Adhoc staff and materials which ensured the early commencement of voting in various wards.

“Notably, priority voting for the elderly has been observed in various locations like Mopa-Muro LGA in Kogi, Pandaya Market and Ekeremor LGA (Ayama Ward, in Bayelsa amongst others.”

It however, identified some concerns such as vote-buying, explaining that “Bayelsa witnessed delayed voting in Kanabiri comp Ward of Sagbama LGA due to the absence of party agents, and late arrival of INEC officials at Yenogoa-Fankpo Square Ward.

“An incident in Ekeremor LGA (Azidekeoreyeine Square Ward), involved an individual attempting to abscond with INEC materials, but citizens resolved the situation without injuries. This stands as a testament to the collective power of the masses.

“While we cannot conclusively speak to voter turnout at this time, low voter turnout has been reported in some parts of these states. Like we observed at Owerri North at Okwu Uratta Primary School Ward.

The group however, identified some concerns such as vote-buying, explaining that “Bayelsa witnessed delayed voting in Kanabiri comp Ward of Sagbama LGA due to the absence of party agents, and late arrival of INEC officials at Yenogoa-Fankpo Square Ward.

“An incident in Ekeremor LGA Azidekeoreyeine Square Ward, involved an individual attempting to abscond with INEC materials, but citizens resolved the situation without injuries.

“This stands as a testament to the collective power of the masses.

While we cannot conclusively speak to voter turnout at this time, low voter turnout has been reported in some parts of these states.

“Like we observed at Owerri North at Okwu Uratta Primary School Ward.

“Disturbingly, in Bayelsa, Market Square Ogia Town Ward of Ogbia LGA, verified reports of vote buying have surfaced, with amounts going as high as N20,000.

“This was also observed at Ama-Ukwu Umuawaka Square Ward, of Njaba LGA, Imo state where votes were traded for as low as one thousand naira. This practice is disturbing and must be halted.”