By Our correspondent
The International Peace and Civil Responsibility Centre (IPCRC) held a one-day training and sensitization programme today, September 26, 2024, for accredited election observers and media personnel ahead of the Anambra State local government election scheduled for Saturday, September 28, 2024.
The programme, held at Mano Hotel & Suites, aimed to familiarize participants with the electoral process, voting procedures, and the crucial role of observers, media, and stakeholders in ensuring a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election.
Prince Chris Azor, Coordinator of IPCRC, emphasized the importance of vigilance, citing potential issues such as vote buying, violence, gender discrimination, and over voting
Azor cautioned participants to be alert and avoid confrontations, stressing the need for collaborative efforts to prevent electoral violence and ensure a smooth voting process.
The Election Management Body, ANSIEC, also utilized the platform to educate participants on their roles and responsibilities.
He warned election observers, ” Never you announce results, only the electoral management body has the exclusive right to announce results.”
This timely sensitization programme comes amidst concerns over electoral violence and vote buying in Nigerian elections.
The Afrobarometer survey highlights the prevalence of vote buying and political intimidation in Nigerian election campaigns
As Anambra State prepares for the local government election, the IPCRC’s sensitization programme serves as a vital step towards promoting electoral integrity and civic responsibility.
