The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has threatened to suspend the Edo and Ondo gubernatorial elections if the actions of political actors lead to a breakdown of law and order in the states.
The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC, Festus Okoye revealed this at the end of the commission’s meeting where stakeholders discussed on several issues which include preparations for the elections.
The Edo State House of Assembly was shut recently after lawmakers loyal to the two major aspirants in the September 19 governorship election in the state fought at the assembly complex.
Okoye said the commission had observed with deep concern, rising levels of violent actions by political parties, candidates and their supporters as the election countdown continues.
He said: “These actions include the destruction of opponents’ campaign materials such as billboards, violent campaigns and use of offensive language.
“It is important for political parties, candidates and their supporters to keep in mind that there are extant laws and regulations that must be adhered to, during campaigns.
“The commission will not shirk its responsibility to enforce the rules of the game.
“Consequently, parties and candidates must, on no account, underestimate the resolve of the commission to enforce the rules and regulations and apply appropriate sanctions against those who choose to break them.
“The commission remains determined to conduct peaceful elections in the two states and in the outstanding National and State Assembly bye-elections.”
Okoye disclosed further that political parties must know that Edo and Ondo governorship elections were taking place at a time of a global pandemic, as such, the commission was working hard to observe and comply with every health and safety protocols released by the commission and health authorities.
He said with the pandemic affecting the citizenry, the good people of Edo and Ondo States need to be saved from the extra burden of violent elections.
He said: “Political parties must remember that Edo and Ondo governorship elections have strict constitutional and statutory timelines and threats of violence or actual violence can disrupt those timelines and create a constitutional crisis.
“The commission will continue to engage stakeholders in the two states on the need for free, fair, safe and peaceful elections, given that it has committed enormous public resources in preparing for them.
“The commission will view gravely, any disruptive actions by political actors.”
