Urgent Plea Amidst Violence
The Kogi East Elders Council (KEEC), representing the Igala group, has urgently called for the postponement of the upcoming November 11 governorship election in Kogi State.
The council expressed deep concerns over escalating violence and killings in the state, citing the need for immediate intervention to restore peace.
Official Statement: Council’s Plea for Postponement
In a statement released on Thursday, Alphonsus K. Alhassan, the Secretary of the Political Committee of KEEC, articulated the council’s position.
The elders underscored the gravity of the situation, asserting that the election should be deferred to ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens.
State of Emergency: A Call to President Tinubu
The elders went a step further by calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Kogi State.
This, they believe, is crucial to bring about a restoration of normalcy in the region. The proposal includes appointing an administrator to oversee the affairs of the state during this critical period.
Rationale for State of Emergency: Ensuring Free and Fair Election
The council justified the call for a state of emergency as a measure to guarantee a free, fair, and credible election.
Expressing deep concern over the current state of affairs in Kogi State, the elders emphasized that the well-being of the people should not be compromised in the name of politics.
Elders’ Plea: Denouncing Intimidation and Violence
Quoting from their statement, the elders expressed their dismay at the ongoing intimidation, harassment, and violence in Kogi State, particularly in Kogi East. They voiced their collective discontent, asserting that such behavior is unacceptable, and the people have endured enough.
Demand for Personnel Redeployment: Allegations of Compromise
In a move aimed at restoring confidence in the electoral process, the elders demanded the immediate redeployment of key security personnel.
They singled out the State Commissioner of Police, Bethrand Onuoha, and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Navy Commander NU Akalezi, alleging compromise on their part.
IGP Egbetokun’s Response: Investigation and Assurance
The article shifts its focus to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, who visited Kogi State in response to the violent incident in Anyigba.
Egbetokun assured Governor Yahaya Bello that an investigation into the incident had been initiated. He expressed the police authority’s displeasure with the pre-election violence and affirmed their commitment to maintaining neutrality during the electoral process.
Precautions Against Further Violence: Police Commitment
Egbetokun emphasized that while the investigation is ongoing, necessary precautions are being taken to prevent any further incidents of violence before, during, and after the election in Kogi State.
The police chief reassured the public of the force’s commitment to neutrality and carrying out their duties effectively.
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