The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations on Gender Equality, Leadership and Good Governance has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to improve future elections after widespread irregularities disappointed Nigerians in the February 25 vote. Elizabeth Oziri, national president of the coalition and Executive Chairperson of Women and Child Disaster Rescue Initiatives, told journalists in Abuja that such a flawed exercise must not be repeated, as it damages the country’s image. She noted that the international community observed the shortcomings and the nation was ridiculed.
The media briefing was attended by Ojineme Enakeme, Executive Chairperson of the African Youth Union Commission; Shulamite Nwaoze, head of Rescue Amnesty International; Michelle Peter of the Nigeria Female Youth Organisation; and Deborah Usman of Women and Child Disaster Rescue Initiatives. Oziri acknowledged that the electoral process was “okay in some states,” but domestic and international observers reported problems in several polling units across various local governments. She said some international observers declared that the process did not meet international standards, yet Nigerians remain hopeful that future elections will improve.
Oziri encouraged Nigerians, especially the youth, to embrace peace, emphasizing that “Nigeria is the only country we have.” She urged those who feel cheated, particularly presidential candidates, to seek redress through the courts, expressing confidence in the judicial system to deliver justice. “The main reason we are here is to encourage peace, especially among political parties, youths and voters,” she said. “If we fight, we achieve nothing; if we remain peaceful, nothing is impossible.” She concluded by urging calm and tranquility, trusting that, with time, everything will fall into place.
Comments are closed for this story.