• Charges journalists on objective reportage

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed worry over the spate of insecurity in Imo State ahead of the forthcoming November 11 governorship election in the state.

The situation, according to the Commission, has resulted in a shortfall of manpower needed for the conduct of the poll in the state, as most people are afraid to apply for positions such as presiding and collation officers for fear of the unknown.

INEC’s National Commissioner for Plateau, Nasarawa, Kaduna and Abuja, Mallam Muhammed Haruna, stated this at a meeting with media executives in Imo, held at Owerri, yesterday.

Haruna urged stakeholders in the state, including politicians, security operatives, political parties and the media to uphold and advocate peace, stressing that such would guarantee credible conduct of the coming election.

The INEC official said: “We have gone so far with our preparedness for the off-cycle elections in Imo, Kogi and Bayelsa States.

“But the Commission is worried about the growing level of insecurity and violence in Kogi and Imo states. This is unacceptable, unnecessary and not healthy for our democracy.

He continued: “Campaigns in Kogi State have been violent, and this is most unfortunate. Our political gladiators and, indeed, citizens must work towards ensuring free, fair and credible elections.

“It stands to reason that if this situation is allowed to continue, there is a likelihood that people will be afraid to come out to vote on Election Day.”

Haruna pleaded with the media to be factual, objective and professional in reporting activities of the Commission, pre-election, election and post- activities.

Earlier in her speech, the Imo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Sylvia Agu, said that the essence of the media meeting was to enlighten practitioners on guidelines, processes and procedures ahead of the governorship election in Imo.