…By Muyiwa Aderinto for TDPel Media.
Intersociety Calls for Imo State to be Rescued from Political Gangsters
The International Society for Civil Liberties and Rule of Law (Intersociety) has condemned the “political banditry and brigandage” in Imo State ahead of the November 11 governorship election.
The non-governmental organisation also expressed concern over the recurring cases of killings, abductions, disappearances and arson in the state.
According to the statement released on Friday by the Chairman, Emeka Umeagbalasi and other officials, more than half of the 27 Local Government Areas and most of their “autonomous communities” are under terror, as well as “military and police siege.”
Security Forces Turned into Terror Squads
The statement further noted that conventional security forces deployed to the area have transformed into terror squads and have become more criminal than those they were deployed to checkmate.
Intersociety accused the security personnel of compromise, stating that it has become difficult to differentiate them from non-state actors.
Misuse of Public Funds
The group also accused the state government of using public funds to suppress and oppress its citizenry in an attempt to retain power.
The statement lamented that the image of Imo State has been severely damaged and charged democratic forces to free the South-Eastern state from another four tortuous and bloody years.
Call to Action
Intersociety called on the leadership of leading parties like APGA, PDP and LP to live above board, shun transactional/money politics and join hands to rescue Imo State.
The statement further added that political defections in Nigeria have ruined the characters and integrity of leading political actors.
Commentary
Intersociety’s statement is a disturbing reminder of the precarious situation in Imo State ahead of the governorship election.
The allegations of killings, abductions, disappearances and arson in the state are grave and must be addressed urgently.
The transformation of conventional security forces into terror squads is alarming, and the accusation of compromise and inability to differentiate them from non-state actors is a cause for concern.
The misuse of public funds to suppress and oppress citizens in an attempt to retain power is a clear violation of democratic principles.
The call to action to rescue Imo State and shun transactional/money politics is crucial, and all political actors must prioritize the interest of the people.
The situation in Imo State is an urgent call to action for the Nigerian government and the international community to ensure that the democratic process is upheld and the safety of the people is guaranteed.