In anticipation of the gubernatorial elections scheduled for Saturday, November 11, in Imo, Bayelsa, and Kogi states, there is heightened tension, particularly in Imo and Kogi, where the situation appears unfavorable. Concerns are growing as the specter of violence looms large, especially in these two states, echoing a similar scenario during the 2023 general elections.
Indications suggest that residents, while eager to participate in the polls, are apprehensive about the potential loss of lives. There is also skepticism and worry regarding the ability of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a fair, transparent, and credible election, given the issues experienced in the 2023 general elections. Instances of opposition candidates’ posters being destroyed, physical attacks on party supporters, and malfunctions in BVAS machines have further compounded the concerns.
During the flag handover ceremony at the Aso Rock Villa, President Bola Tinubu urged for free, fair, and transparent elections in the three states, expressing confidence in the party’s success based on hard work, candidates’ records, and the collective efforts of party officials and members.
However, an elite organization in Kogi, Club 582, has called on President Tinubu to investigate recent killings in the state, expressing concerns about rising violence despite the deployment of security forces. In Imo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is advocating for the redeployment of the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), alleging that the people would reject any election result involving the current REC.
Observing the situation in Kogi and Imo, there is a growing fear of unprecedented violence during the upcoming elections, prompting calls for proactive measures by security agencies to protect voters and residents through effective intelligence gathering and response.
In Imo State, reports indicate a lack of visibility of opposition candidates’ posters in Owerri, the state capital, raising concerns about opposition suppression. Similar concerns are echoed in Kogi, where the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) reports multiple attacks without arrests.
While the situation in Bayelsa appears less tense, a recent threat from the deputy governorship candidate of the APC has added a new dimension. The PDP in Bayelsa alleges that opposition politicians are arming thugs to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the elections.
The Niger Delta Nationalities Forum expresses doubt about INEC’s ability to deliver credible elections, citing previous instances of rule flouting. The need for separating the state from the government is emphasized by Chief Alex Ogbonnia of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, while former NBA Vice President Monday Onyekachi Ubani emphasizes the role of citizens in holding INEC accountable for free and fair elections by raising concerns about any identified defects in the electoral process.