As the general elections draw closer, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has deepened its voter education and sensitisation campaign for peaceful, fair and credible polls by embarking on road show in Kogi state.
The Kogi state NOA Director-General Mallam Mohammed Abdullahi, who recollected how the country had witnessed violence, intimidation, harassment and ballot box snatching since 1999 when it returned to democratic system of government, stated that the ugly trend must be reversed in the forthcoming elections.
“You are already aware that the presidential/senatorial and House of Representatives elections will hold on Saturday 16th February 2019, while the governorship/state House of Assembly elections will be held on Saturday 2nd March, 2019.
“From 1999 to date, violence, intimidation, harassment, ballot box snatching, ballot paper theft, destruction of property, killing and maiming of innocent people have characterised our electoral process”, he said.
He said NOA in collaboration with other relevant agencies will continue to enlighten the people on then danger such acts pose to any society, adding that Nigeria does not need such problem.
Abdullahi reiterated that unlawful possession of ballot papers, illegal printing of ballot papers, and unlawful possession of weapons at political rallies or voting centres are some of the activities that should be avoided.
He equally urged electorate to vigorously shun thuggery, gangsterism and vote buying as this could alter their choice of credible candidates.
“The INEC has assured the general public that there will be early arrival of election materials, adequacy of election materials and functional card readers on the day of election.
“I urge the media, traditional rulers, cleric and women group to talk to their people. The whole world is watching Nigeria and cannot afford to fail as the giant of Africa”, he concluded.
