By Angela Atabo
#TrackNigeria: A coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Monday in Abuja urged the new Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mohammed Adamu to be professional and non-partisan during the forthcoming general election.
Speaking during a news briefing by the coalition, Mr Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) said the 2019 election is critical to Nigeria’s democracy.
Rafsanjani said the call on the police was imperative due to its role in protecting the civil populace during elections.
“We call on the new I-G to ensure that his officers take a non-partisan posture by ensuring that those who will attempt to cause violence are dealt with.
“As the general election approaches, Nigerians and the international community are concerned about the integrity of the electoral process,” he said.
He further called on security agencies to equip their personnel for effective service delivery during the election.
Mr Samson Itodo, Executive Director YIAGA AFRICA, called for transparency in the procurement of military equipment in the country.
Itodo said the group is against payment of security votes to political leaders, describing it as `pillage of national resources’
He called on the security agencies to avoid undue harassment and intimidation of civilians during the election to enable them exercise their franchise without inhibition.
According to him, there is need for adequate oversight activities on the operations of security agencies by the relevant legislative committees.
He called on political parties to strictly adhere to the rule of law and respect for the freedom of the press as the country moved towards the election.
The coalition is made up of 11 CSOs with the aim of supporting the nation to have a peaceful environment and credible elections. With reports by (NAN)
