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INEC Will Replicate Ekiti Strategy In Osun- Jega

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Attahiru Jega, on Wednesday said the commission will replicate all it did in Ekiti to ensure … Continue reading INEC Will Replicate Ekiti Strategy In Osun- Jega


attahiru-jegaChairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Attahiru Jega, on Wednesday said the commission will replicate all it did in Ekiti to ensure a successful election in the August 9 governorship election in Osun state. 
Prof. Jega, who promised a better performance in the Osun State election, noted that the commission used the Ekiti elections to test some of the strategies it thinks are necessary to ensure free fare and credible elections in the nation.

Some of the improved strategies according to the INEC boss include regular sensitization programs with politicians, traditional rulers and the electorates.

Prof. Jega expressed confidence in the commission’s improved logistics and staff training to ensure credible elections in Osun and the 2015 general elections across the country.

INEC also called on media practitioners to help sensitize the public on the need to be of good behaviour during elections and encouraged media houses to give equal airtime and space to political parties.

He however acknowledged the fact that with 30 Local Governments, compared to Ekiti’s 16, Osun State will be a bigger challenge in terms of size and complexity for the Commission.

The INEC Chairman said “the Commission has recognised this and is factoring it into its plans”, adding that “part of the arrangements to make the Osun State election credible was the the replacement of the Resident Electoral Commissioner’.

He said the former Osun REC has done nothing wrong and the allegations against him cannot be proven, insisting that “the Commission has to replace him to lessen complaints that may affect the credibility of the elections.

“Everything is on course to have free and fair elections in Osun State on August 9,” Jega said.

Meanwhile, representatives of media practitioners in the forum advocated for the safety of their colleagues who cover elections, while insisting on professionalism in reporting campaigns, voting and results.

Despite the challenges that INEC says exists including insecurity, funding and attitudes of the political class, Prof. Jega believes that the 2015 general elections will place Nigeria in the comity of nations where democracy is consolidated.