Coalition Accuses INEC of Disenfranchising Edo Voters

The Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations (CONGOS), a coalition of civil society organizations, has raised concerns regarding the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its alleged denial of voting rights to Edo State citizens. At an emergency press conference held in Benin City, the President of CONGOS, Comrade Abiola Daisy Igaga, accused INEC of disregarding the Electoral Act and preventing potential voters from registering with the Commission.

The primary objective of the press conference was to draw attention to INEC’s failure to comply with the Electoral Act of 2022, as amended, and the legality of the continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise. Comrade Igaga emphasized the importance of inclusive and credible elections, stating that INEC’s actions were in violation of the law.

Of particular concern was the fact that INEC had not yet initiated the CVR exercise in Edo State, despite the upcoming elections scheduled for September 21st. Comrade Igaga pointed to Section 10.1 of the Electoral Act, which clearly mandates the continuous registration of all eligible voters. Furthermore, when read in conjunction with Section 9.6 of the act, it becomes evident that the CVR exercise must be concluded on or before June 21st, 2024, as it must end 90 days before the election.

Comrade Igaga stressed the need for INEC to address the concerns of the people and restore confidence in the electoral process. The organization called upon the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Yakubu Mahmood, to fulfill his promise of strengthening the electoral process.

While CONGOS pledged its support to INEC in enhancing voter education and combating voter apathy, it urged the Commission to demonstrate goodwill by promptly resuming the CVR exercise in Edo State. The organization emphasized that the exercise was not optional but a mandatory provision of the law.

In light of these developments, the focus remains on INEC’s response to the concerns raised by CONGOS and their commitment to upholding the democratic rights of Edo State citizens.