IPAC urges INEC to maintain neutrality, warns youths against thuggery

A coalition of the 18 registered political parties in Nigeria under the aegis of Inter Party Advisory Council on Wednesday called on the Independent National Electoral Commission and security agencies to ensure that the Anambra State governorship election scheduled for November 6 is credible, fair and transparent.

The parties urged the youth in the state to eschew violence and “shun political buccaneers masquerading as democrats whose stock in trade is to use them for electoral thuggery, ballot snatching and rigging to thwart the people’s mandate.”

IPAC also said it had received assurances from relevant quarters that the result of the election will be transmitted electronically.

The Chairman of IPAC and National Chairman, African Action Congress, Dr. Leonard Nzenwa, at press conference in Abuja said it was important that INEC and security agencies commit to ensuring fairness and transparency during the election.

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He said, “INEC should provide a level playing field to all political parties and their candidates participating in the election and ensure electoral materials are provided, and that voting starts as scheduled in all polling units in the State.

“The neutrality of INEC in this election will determine the survival of democracy in Nigeria. All eyes are on the commission and its officials as they discharge this onerous civic responsibility.

“Security agents should also discharge their duties professionally and ensure adequate protection of lives and property during the exercise.”

Nzenwa suggested that security agents should provide dedicated phone numbers for the people to call if there is any breach of the peace in their polling units.

According to him, IPAC had been consulting with all stakeholders on two key areas; the compelling need to work harmoniously together to have free, fair, credible and peaceful elections across the country, and for all to ensure that they work collectively irrespective of any misgivings to reverse the inclement security situation in the country.