2019: CSOs Back INEC On Fixing Of Election Dates

Civil Society Organisations, (CSO) yesterday backed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the announcement of dates for 2019 general elections recently.
They, however, condemned the interference of the security agencies in the electoral process in recent major polls and advised that security agencies should be more professional and non-partisan.
The CSOs, disclosed this in  a communiqué jointly signed by Esther Uzoma,        Jake Epelle; Dr. Nwambu Gabriel; Cynthia Mbamalu            The communiqué reads in part, “Date of the elections: CSO commended the commission on the proactive steps in announcing early dates for the 2019 general elections as it provides for certainty and proper planning for the elections.
“Continuous Voter Registration: CSO’s welcomed the plan of the Commission to commence year round nationwide CVR to be conducted at the local governments areas.
“Security: CSO’s condemned the interference of the security agencies in the electoral process particularly in Edo and Rivers states and advised that security agencies should be more professional and non-partisan.
“Electoral Reform: CSOs enjoined the Commission to work closely with the National Assembly and the Presidential Committee on Constitution and Electoral Reforms (Nnamani Committee) to harmonize the proposed amendments and to ensure the innovations are in tandem with the proposed amendments .
“Data: CSO’s commended the Commission for disaggregation of data on the elections and enjoined the commission to ensure that the data is  inclusive of persons with disabilities and also guide the policy direction of the Commission in planning for future elections.