Umuahia, Nigeria —
The Igbo World Union (IWU) has urged the Abia State government and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the forthcoming local government elections in the state are conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
The IWU, a prominent socio-cultural organization that advocates for the unity and progress of the Igbo people, expressed concerns about the credibility of past elections in the state.
In a statement released by its President-General, His Imperial Majesty, Amb. Sir Dr. Mishak Nnanta (KJW, Ksm, JP), Gburugburu Ndigbo Dum, the union called on the relevant authorities to guarantee the electoral process reflects the will of the people.
"The local government election is a vital component of democracy. It provides the grassroots an opportunity to choose leaders that will represent their interests," Nnanta said.
"We cannot afford to allow electoral malpractices to deprive the people of Abia the chance for genuine leadership and development."
He emphasized that credible elections are key to fostering development in the state's rural areas, which rely heavily on the effectiveness of local governance.
The IWU also called on political parties to ensure their candidates are qualified and dedicated to the service of the people, urging them to avoid any form of intimidation, violence, or vote-buying.
The Abia State local government elections, scheduled for later this year, have sparked widespread interest as it will mark the first such exercise since the end of the previous administration. The IWU stressed the importance of international and local observers being allowed to monitor the process to ensure transparency.
The union concluded by encouraging the electorate to turn out en masse to exercise their civic responsibility, calling for a peaceful atmosphere before, during, and after the elections.
As the election date approaches, the call from the IWU adds to growing demands for integrity in Nigeria's electoral system, especially at the grassroots level where governance directly impacts the lives of millions.
0 Comments