Group Cautions Political Parties Against Imposition Of Candidates, Others Ahead Of Guber Primaries In Edo
FROM IKHILI EBALU, BENIN CITY
A socio-political group, Concerned Edo Citizens Forum (CECF) on Wednesday called on political parties ahead of the Edo governorship election to conduct a free fair and credible primaries that will be acceptable to all and eschew imposition of candidates inorder to maintain the peace and tranquility in the state.
This is contained in a statement signed by the converner, Concerned Edo Citizens Forum (CECF), Comrade Roy Oribhabor and made available to newsmen in Benin City, Edo state.
Oribhabor noted that imposition of candidates will not be accommodated , adding that Edo people must be allowed to choose who governs them without intimidation.
He said the conduct of the Governorship election should not create unrest in the state, warning against activities capable of undermine the process and over heat the polity.
“It has become necessary to call on all political parties to conduct free fair and credible primaries that will be acceptable to all. Political Parties must demonstrate character of commitment and transparency in the entire process and processes of the primaries.
“Edo people are politically mature, sophisticated and disciplined therefore, imposition of candidates will not be accommodated , people must be allowed to choose their choice without intimidation and harassment,the will of the people must prevail according to the principles of democracy and Democratic tendency.
“As concerned citizens of Edo and critical stakeholder in Edo projects we also, use this opportunity to call on politicians not to undermine the doctrines of democracy for selfish gains but promote collective will for the prosperity of all. ” he said.
Oribhabor urged the political actors in the state with penchant for manipulating the electoral process for personal gains to have a rethink saying, “We shall mobilize any candidate who try to steal or undermine the process at the governorship election.
” We commend all aspirants who have play according to the rule of engagement and maintain peaceful disposition. We hope to monitor all the primaries and report accordingly as we prepare for the governorship election . We call for level playing field for all aspirants to make the process people oriented. ” Oribhabor said.