Ever since Nigeria gained independence, the electoral processes have been rattled by all forms of violence.
The patterns remain strong as the country prepares to hold another round of elections on February 25, 2023.
At a gathering of stakeholders in Benin City, with the Moniker, “Election Security” organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NTA Benin Chapel, the aim was geared towards understanding why what is supposed to be the hallmark of democracy faces such repeated challenges and make recommendations.
In a paper presentation made by the Former Inspector General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase said the lack of clear guidelines on command and control have been a setback to violence-free elections in the past three election cycle in the country.
He was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police operations, Edo State Command DCP, Miller Dantawaye
Dr. Arase, however, advised that an institutional synergy between Civil Society, Security Agents, and other Relative electoral bodies working for the common purpose of public good be established to have legitimate elections.
The former police Scribe said there is a need to adopt stricter rules to eliminate or limit electoral violence.
In his remarks, the Residence Electoral Commissioner, REC, Independent Electoral Commission, Edo State, Obo Efanga revealed that the Commission is ready to complete another cycle of the electoral process.
Represented by the Head of Voters Education Timidi Wariowei, explained that the commission in Edo state has received the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, developed by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC and has been put to test.
For the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Edo State Council, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, the ethics of the profession must be seen as priorities for practicing Journalists
He warned that Journalists must not be seen wearing Political parties souvenirs during the election as this may have negative consequences on the profession.
Earlier in their remarks, the host and Zonal Director of NTA Benin Station, Pauline Igbanor, and the Chairman, of NTA Chapel, Goodluck Enaini agreed that the theme was timely while describing the occasion as historic especially as it is the Maiden edition.
Dignitaries cut across all strata including Civil Society Organizations, Political party, Artisans, and Journalists in the state who attended the event lauded the organizers.
