Paragraph 1: INEC’s Stance on Electoral Integrity in Osun State
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to its staff members in Osun State ahead of the forthcoming governorship election. Any compromise of the Bimodal Voters Accreditation System (BVAS), a crucial component of ensuring free and fair elections, will be met with the full force of the law. Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Mutiu Agboke emphasized INEC’s established regulations and procedures during a media interaction in Ibadan, stating that any deviation from these established norms will be considered a contravention and will result in the immediate involvement of security operatives. This strong stance underscores INEC’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
Paragraph 2: Safeguarding BVAS Functionality and Preventing Compromise
The BVAS, a technological innovation introduced to enhance transparency and accuracy in voter accreditation, plays a critical role in preventing electoral malpractices. REC Agboke stressed the importance of ensuring that the BVAS machines are fully charged and operational during the election. He warned against any deliberate attempts to compromise the functionality of the BVAS, explaining that such actions would be considered sabotage of the electoral process. Agboke urged citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity involving the BVAS to security personnel, highlighting the collective responsibility in safeguarding the integrity of the election.
Paragraph 3: Assigning Responsibility for Electoral Fraud and Violence
While emphasizing INEC’s commitment to a fair electoral process, REC Agboke also pointedly addressed the role of various stakeholders in past electoral irregularities. He questioned the effectiveness of the media, security agencies, civil society organizations, the political class, and religious leaders in preventing electoral fraud and violence. He expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of violence and vote-buying, lamenting the disruptive impact of these activities on the electoral process. He urged these stakeholders to take proactive measures to curb these threats and ensure peaceful and credible elections.
Paragraph 4: Collaborative Approach to Curbing Vote-Buying and Violence
REC Agboke stressed the need for a collaborative approach to tackle the pervasive issues of vote-buying and electoral violence. He called for continuous engagement with stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of educating the public on the value of their votes and the sanctity of democratic principles. He underscored the importance of instilling a sense of civic responsibility among voters, encouraging them to resist the temptation of selling their votes and to prioritize their conscience in making electoral decisions. Agboke believes that a sustained dialogue involving all stakeholders is crucial for ensuring the long-term health of Nigeria’s democracy.
Paragraph 5: Engaging Stakeholders and Emphasizing Civic Responsibility
The REC reiterated that INEC alone cannot combat the challenges of vote-buying and violence. He called on the media, civil society organizations, and particularly the political class, to participate actively in promoting ethical electoral practices. He suggested engaging politicians in conversations about the detrimental effects of vote-buying and violence on the integrity of the electoral process. He emphasized the importance of educating the public about their rights and responsibilities as voters, highlighting the power of their conscience in shaping the country’s political landscape. This collaborative approach, Agboke believes, is crucial for fostering a culture of free and fair elections.
Paragraph 6: Call for Transparency and Accountability from Key Actors
REC Agboke extended his call for accountability to the police leadership and religious leaders, urging them to publicly address their roles in preventing electoral malpractices. He stressed the importance of transparency and open dialogue about the strategies employed by these institutions to curb vote-buying and violence. He also called for increased scrutiny of political parties and politicians, who are the ultimate beneficiaries of the electoral process, emphasizing their responsibility in ensuring a peaceful and credible election. By holding all stakeholders accountable, Agboke hopes to promote a collective effort towards achieving a more democratic and transparent electoral system in Nigeria.
