2019: CAN Warns Security Agencies, INEC Against Rigging Polls

Ahead of the forthcoming general elections, the Christian Association of Nigeria has called on the security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission against rigging the elections.

The CAN President, Samson Ayokunle issued this in a statement that was co-signed by his spokesperson, Pastor Adebayo Oladeji.

The association also called on agencies not to harass or intimidate voters during the elections period.

The CAN President commended President Muhammadu Buhari for pledging to ensure the forthcoming elections are free and fair.

“The Association, however, observes that the present efforts of the government in providing security is not yielding the needed results as wanton killings have continued, especially in some States in the northern part of the country.

“Boko Haram appeared to have resurrected again, decimating communities in Borno and Yobe States in particular, and not sparing soldiers. This resurgence of insecurity in the Northeast portends danger for the forthcoming general elections if efforts at curtailing it are not increased. Many voters might be disenfranchised from voting.

“We commend President Muhammadu Buhari for the continuous reassurance that all will be done by the government to make the forthcoming general elections free, fair and credible. We at the same time implore Mr President to make sure that all these promises are transformed into reality through concrete efforts that would prevent violence and other electoral malpractices.

“We call on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Police and other security agents not to make themselves available to be used for rigging or any form of electoral malpractice by the politicians.

“No voter or election observer must be intimidated or harassed throughout the period of the election. We equally urge politicians to run away from vote buying while the electorates should not allow anybody to buy their votes. If you sell your vote, you sell your future.

“We urge all Nigerians to continue praying fervently for peaceful and credible elections in our country and to walk circumspectly.”