- Group urges INEC and Security Agencies to protect electoral process and lives
In a concerning development, the Bayelsa Political Watch, a civic advocacy group, has brought to light an alleged plot to manipulate the forthcoming gubernatorial election in Bayelsa State through violence in Opu Nembe. The group has sounded a clarion call to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure that the integrity of the electoral process is preserved and that voters are not disenfranchised due to intimidation or violence.
The Bayelsa Political Watch has expressed apprehension regarding the potential for electoral misconduct and violence that may compromise the forthcoming gubernatorial election. The group has urged INEC and security agencies to remain steadfast in their commitment to the democratic process and refrain from being complicit in any actions that would undermine the election.
Moreover, the group has called upon the top-ranking security officials in the nation to take proactive measures to prevent further violence in Nembe Bassambiri, a locality situated in the Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Nadione Harrison, the Coordinator of the Bayelsa Political Watch, has also called for unity between the State Government and security agencies, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the lives and property of Bayelsans on Election Day, regardless of political affiliations.
The group has further urged all candidates vying in the November 11 polls to prioritize the safety of innocent Bayelsa citizens, refraining from resorting to violence in their pursuit of political power.
Nadione underscored the need to uphold the sanctity of life and property in Bayelsa at all times, particularly on the day of the gubernatorial election. The group’s concern stems from the rising likelihood of recurring violence in Nembe Bassabiri, as evidenced by political unrest and casualties witnessed on August 12.
The coordinator recalled the tragic events of 2019 when more than 22 individuals lost their lives in pre-election violence in Opu Nembe (Bassambiri) and expressed dismay that those responsible for the violence and the loss of innocent lives have not been held accountable.
The Bayelsa Political Watch firmly advocates for election campaigns that engage voters through peaceful political discourse, as opposed to the deployment of arms and ammunition or the victimization of innocent citizens, as allegedly orchestrated in Opu Nembe.
Nadione stressed that every responsible parent would understandably harbor concerns about deploying innocent National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members to areas with a history of violence unless they receive assurances from security agencies and INEC regarding their safety.
The group lauded the State Government for taking the proactive step of banning the activities of the Council of Chiefs and Youths’ Council in Opu-Nembe on September 2. This decision is perceived as an earnest effort to restore public peace and order in Opu-Nembe, highlighting the government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
As the Bayelsa gubernatorial election approaches, the Bayelsa Political Watch implores security agencies and INEC to prioritize areas prone to violence and take proactive measures to avert any further loss of life. They emphasized that heinous crimes committed under the guise of politics can be prevented, harking back to the ghastly slaughter of 22 individuals during the previous gubernatorial election in the state.
The group also recognized and commended the State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, for his forward-looking decision to ban the activities of the Council of Chiefs and Youths’ Council in the volatile area. In conclusion, the Bayelsa Political Watch reiterated that no parent should have to worry about deploying their children as corps members in areas where politicians’ desperation could jeopardize their lives.
