By Chuks Uzochukwu
Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Imo State Council has applauded Yiaga Africa, a pro-democracy group for its commitment to boost voters' confidence in electioneering process of the country.
The group, according to Imo NUJ, has contributed immensely in sustaining and deepening democracy in Nigeria and across Africa through constant advocacy and sensitisation of critical stakeholders, aimed at enhancing public active participation in governance.
The commendation was given at a one-day 'Watch The Vote Media and Civil Society Organizations, CSOs Roundtable Discussion' held at Swiss International Beland Hotel, Owerri, by the Council Chairman, Comrade Ifeanyi Nwanguma.
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Regarding the scheduled November 11th off-cycle gubernatorial election in state, Nwanguma who was represented by Mr Chigozie Uzosike also appreciated Yiaga Africa for engaging and collaborating with the media in effort to achieve a credible, free, fair and violence-free poll in the state.
The Imo NUJ boss also appealed to stakeholders to uphold peace and resist attempt capable of jeopardizing the exercise, stressing that achievement of a credible election, is a collective responsibility of citizens.
He further pledged on behalf of council members in the state, the commitment to continously partners cum support effort that would guarantee the safety and general well-being of the citizens.
Cynthia Mbamalu, Programme Director of Yiaga Africa, speaking at the workshop.
Speaking, Cynthia Mbamalu, Programme Director of Yiaga Africa said that the workshop was part of the efforts of the group to collaborate with other CSOs and media practitioners towards achieving a better and democratic society.
Mbamalu, a legal practitioner, disclosed that the workshop was also designed to provide the opportunity for the participants to rub minds and resolve on better ways to improve on the previous elections in the state.
She also stressed on the need for civil society activists and media practitioners to join hands with Yiaga Africa to reawaken the confidence and trust of the electorate on the electoral process.
Also, Paul James, Yiaga Africa Programme Officer stated that the post-election report of the 2023 general election, revealed that polls did not commence in most parts of the South East in real time and there were issues of inconsistence and malpractice in the exercise especially in the geo-political region.
During the discussions, participants unanimously agreed that the coming Imo governorship election may be marred by voter apathy owing to people's lost of confidence in INEC and in the entire electoral process.
They also identified insecurity and corruption as major challenges that may mar the process cum discourage active public participation in the the exercise .
The participants called on government, INEC and security agencies to do more to assure intending voters of their safety during the poll and that their votes would count thereafter.
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