A coalition of non-indigenes in Ekiti State has called on INEC to remain neutral and exhibit professional in the conduct of the June 18 governorship election.
The coalition, comprising ethnic nationalities like the Igala, Igede, Idoma, Tiv, Nassarawa, and the northern Christians, gave the charge yesterday in Ado-Ekiti during a rally to sensitise non-indigenes ahead of the election.
The event was attended by the Southwest Coordinators Vincent Adoyi and Abba Jonathan, and leaders of various ethnic nationalities in the 16 council areas of the state.
The Convener, Sunday Ochayi, said the INEC must remain independent in discharging its constitutional mandate and provide a level-playing ground for all parties.According to Ochayi, a free, transparent and credible election will not only strengthen the nation’s electoral system, but also be a pointer to the July 16 governorship poll in Osun State and the 2023 general election.
He said ‘INEC must shun partisanship in the spirit of fairness and in line with international best practices’, noting that ‘neutrality and professionalism are very important ingredients to deliver free, fair, and credible election’.
Ochayi also advised the electorate to vote wisely and choose the best among the candidates, saying Ekiti will be better if a man of vision is elected. He urged the people to vote a candidate who is ‘ready to render selfless services for the state’s socio-economic development.
He added: “You are advised to get your voters card. Your PVC is your right and, with it, you will vote a credible candidate. I appeal to you to vote wisely. Don’t mortgage your future and that of your children with N5,000 or N10,000 as the case may be. In the heat of imposition of money, you can collect the money and vote for the right candidate.”
