FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
Ahead of the Edo State governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024, the Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice, ANEEJ, and the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room have urged residents of the state to shun violence and support a peaceful election.
ANEEJ executive director, Rev. David Ugolor made the call during a civic education and peace rally organised by the group across the three senatorial districts of the state.
The Benin City rally began at the Museum Centre on King Square, and ended at the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Press Centre.
Ugolor explained that the rally was aimed at raising public awareness on the need for a peaceful and violence-free election in Edo State.
Speaking at the rally in Uromi, the coordinator of JDPCI, Fr. Fidelis Arhedo emphasised the need for a peaceful election.
“We are aware that as the election gets closer, tension is rising. The election should not be a do or die affair. We want a violence-free process—before, during, and after the election. We believe Edo people can cast their votes for the candidate of their choice without bloodshed or gunfire”, Fr Arhedo stated.
On her part, the chairperson of Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, JONAPWD, Edo State chapter, Ann Ojugo said her group had been educating voters to promote participation while condemning election violence.
Echoing these sentiments, Louisa E. Agbokhese from Echo of Women in Africa denounced all forms of violence, especially against women.
Also speaking, Edo State chairman of NUJ, Festus Alenkhe expressed hope for a peaceful election, as he called for tighter security measures during the poll.
