Maintain neutrality, TMG urges INEC

The Transition Monitoring Group has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to maintain its neutrality during Saturday’s general election.

This is as the group also urged Nigerians to cast their votes to elect leaders across the various levels.

In a statement on Friday signed by the TMG Chairman, Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), the TMG commended Nigerians, especially the young people that have shown great enthusiasm since preparations commenced for the 2023 election.

The statement read, “We call on INEC to continue to demonstrate neutrality and respect for its announced processes and guidelines. This is important to maintain public confidence in the process.

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“We further urge the INEC Chairman to ensure the highest level of integrity and professionalism throughout the commission, including national commissioners, state electoral commissioners, electoral officers and all returning officers.

“We urge INEC to follow its timeline and procedures to achieve the timely release and distribution of all essential and non-essential materials. Further, we urge INEC to remain resolute in its commitment to free and fair elections.

“Recently, the Commission commenced daily briefing on the elections. We urge the Commission to keep to its promise and continue to speak to Nigerians to maintain their confidence and support.”

Meanwhile, the TMG also urged all political actors, especially political parties and their supporters to shun every temptation to intimidate and suppress opposition or any other group of people from exercising their rights. O

“One of the hallmarks of a thriving democracy is the opportunity for people to hold and support different candidates of their choice. It is critical therefore that all eligible Nigerian voter can exercise their civic duties free of intimidation and threats of any nature.

“We urge all security agencies to be vigilant and take action to guarantee the safety of all voters. In particular, we think security agencies must pay particular attention to hard-to-reach communities where the risk of intimidation and voter suppression is higher,” the statement added.