By Emmanuel Mogbede
A Coalition of Civil Society Organisations for Credible Elections has appealed for diplomatic engagement from the United States of America and the British Government to support credible governorship election in Osun.
The appeal is contained in a petition addressed to the US Ambassador in Nigeria and made available to newsmen after a briefing at the US embassy on Friday in Abuja.
The coalition also appealed to the US Government to publicly reaffirm its support for constitutional democracy, the rule of law and credible electoral processes in Osun in particular and Nigeria in general.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the petition was signed by IgweUde-Umanta, Coordinator Empowerment For Unemployed Youth Initiative and Tijani Shehu, Coordinator, Northern Youth Leadership Alliance.
Another signatory to the petition was Danesi Momoh, Director-General, Citizens For Good Governance, Rule of Law and Anti Corruption Initiative.
Momoh, who read the petition to newsmen on behalf of others, said the coalition was committed to democracy.
He noted that Nigeria remained one of Africa’s most important democracies, adding that the integrity of elections at every level in the country was critical to maintaining public trust in democratic institutions.
According to Momoh, a threat to credible election in Osun is a threat to democracy in Nigeria and by extension, Africa.
“We believe that principled diplomatic engagement in support of universally recognised democratic standards can contribute to reducing tensions, preventing violence and encouraging adherence to constitutional norms.
“Our appeal is rooted in our shared commitment to democratic governance, human rights and the peaceful resolution of political disputes.
“We write on behalf of a coalition of civil society organisations for credible elections. We are committed to promoting democracy, the rule of law, electoral integrity and constitutional governance in Nigeria.
“We respectfully draw your attention to growing concerns regarding the political environment ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in Osun,” he said.
Momoh noted that recent developments in Osun had generated widespread apprehension among citizens, civil society and other stakeholders about the prospects for a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process.
He explained that a credible election required that all political actors operated within the framework of the constitution, respect judicial decisions and refrain from intimidation or violence.
Momoh said it should also ensure that electoral institutions were allowed to perform their responsibilities independently and impartially.
“These principles are fundamental to democratic governance and public confidence in electoral outcomes,” he stated.
He therefore appealed to the Federal Government and all political parties to ensure that the electoral process in Osun was conducted peacefully and in accordance with the constitution and applicable laws, ensuring a level-playing field for all contestants.
Momoh called on all political actors to refrain from violence, intimidation, misuse of security agencies, public institutions or involvement in actions capable of undermining public confidence in the electoral process.
He also appealed to relevant institutions, including electoral and security agencies to discharge their responsibilities with professionalism, impartiality and respect for the rights of all citizens.
Momoh also stressed the need for closely monitoring developments surrounding the elections and engagement of relevant Nigerian authorities, where necessary, to promote peaceful and democratic outcomes.
“We trust that your mission will continue to support efforts that strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions, while respecting its sovereignty.
“We appreciate your attention to this important matter and remain available to provide further information or engage in constructive dialogue,” Momoh said.(NAN)
Edited by ‘Wale Sadeeq