By Raphael Ede
Enugu
A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Centre for Reform Education Initiative (CREI) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and critics of Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi state to leave him alone to concentrate on the good work he is doing in the state.
The Group also said at the appropriate time, the truth about the double registration allegations against the Governor will be unveiled and those crucifying him will be put to shame.
Executive Director of CREI, Hon. Chinwe Ugwu, who gave the advice in a statement in made available to news on Wednesday in Enugu, said it was clear that mischief makers were at work and bent on distracting the governor from fulfilling his laudable programmes in the state.
The statement reads; “As a developmental organisation, CREI has viewed with serious concerns insinuations and lies being peddled against Governor Yahaya Bello all with the intent of distracting his attention from the serious business of governance.
“We are therefore calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the opponents of Governor Yahaya Bello to desist from making inflammatory and contemptuous statements regarding allegations of double registration.
“As far as the law is concerned, Governor Bello remains innocent until proven guilty”, the Executive Director submitted.
He appealed to those who have already convicted the Governor out of malice and smearing his name for political reasons to stop their mischievous plans.
“CREI’s investigation has shown that most of those passing judgement against the Governor are doing so out of ignorance and malice”.
Speaking specifically to INEC, the CREI boss, advised the election umpire not to play into the hands of politicians who are looking for every opportunity to score cheap points against the Governor because of his anti-corruption stance.
“We believe that INEC is a responsible organisation, and would allow the rule of law to prevail in this matter and avoid playing to the gallery. Everything that is been said today against the Governor remains in the realm of allegations and should be taken as such”, she stated.
Ugwu also called on the people of Kogi state to continue to support the governor to deliver dividends of democracy to the people.
“It is our candid appeal to the good people of Kogi state to support their youthful governor, so that the state can attain higher milestones in development”
It will be recalled that INEC recently dismissed two of its officials for their alleged roles in the electoral scandal involving the Kogi State Governor.
