By Naomi Sharang
Abuja – Centre for Transparency and Advocacy (CTA), an accredited observer group has urged security agencies to exhibit neutrality and professionalism during Saturday’s Presidential and National Assembly Election.
Acting Executive Director of the group, Ms Faith Nwadishi made the call while briefing newsmen in Abuja on Friday.
She also called on security agents to act in accordance with the Electoral Act, saying they should be polite and approachable to the electorate.
“They should be firm, while not going outside the law, in enforcing the Electoral Law including arresting people engaging in unwholesome practices such as vote trading.
“We appeal to security agencies to treat voters and citizens with utmost civility.
“The Electoral Act stipulates clearly how offenders should be treated and we must be seen to protect that while protecting the lives and properties of citizens who chose to excise their fundamental right to vote as enshrined in the Constitution of our land,”she said.
Nwadishi noted that the CTA Situation Room has been reconvened with a view to monitoring the election.
“The situation room is manned by seasoned election analysts and journalists who will sieve field reports and communicate same to Nigerians from a neutral point of view.
“We assure Nigerians of our commitment to professionally and dispassionately reporting our findings from the field.
“We reiterate our call on all stakeholders; INEC, security agencies, election observers and political parties to play by the rules and ensure a hitch free, fair and credible election.
“We call on all eligible Nigerians to come out and vote for candidates of their choice, as it is their right to do so. Your vote is your right. Your vote is your power. Exercise it.
“In like manner, we call on party agents to be vigilant and cooperate with one another and with election officials to ensure orderly and credible elections,” she said.(NAN)