Militarization of elections unacceptable amidst worsening security environment says Situation Room
The Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room though seriously concerned about the worsening security environment on the eve of the 9th March 2019 Governorship and State Assembly Elections., decried the militarization of Nigeria’s election process.
The Second Preliminary Statement of the Situation Room by its Convener, Clement Nwankwo at about 11.00pm Friday night indicated an escalation of violence between and within political parties and their supporters as well as reports of partisanship of security agencies in the discharge of their duties; harassing and intimidating candidates, their supporters and voters.
Reports from across several states and some Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) point to an intimidating presence of military personnel who are unwilling to assist in providing security and safe delivery of election materials in locations and INEC completely helpless in this circumstance.
Situation Room, he said was also concerned that the deployment of military hardware including fighter jets, attack helicopters etc and excessive military deployment across the country pose an unacceptable and disenfranchising atmosphere and represents a major disincentive for good voter turnout or free exercise of choice by citizens.
“The tension is palpable and would only serve to undermine the credibility of the election process. Situation Room calls on the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces to immediately issue orders to the military hierarchy to comply with their constitutional and legal responsibilities and conduct themselves within the scope of their roles and responsibility as provided in Section 29 (3) of the Electoral Act 2015 as Amended”, he said.
The report had it that “the escalation of violence led to loss of lives and destruction of properties on Friday in Oto-Awori, Ojo LGA in Lagos State where 35 vehicles were burnt and two persons killed as a result of violence between members of the APC.
“There is tension and apprehension in Okirika LGA in Rivers State due heavy deployment of the military and sporadic gunshots. These are just a few examples of the escalating cases of violence that our observers have reported”
Situation Room called on the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) to use the mechanism of the inter-agency security platform to address cases of security overreach and intimidation.
It called for adequate steps to ensure security protocol for deployment and protection of INEC staff and the voting process is strictly adhered to. INEC is expected through words and action to condemn any action capable of intimidating voters whether perpetrated by the state, the military or individuals.
The Situation Room urged citizens to remain calm and vigilant as they cast their votes.
