Kogi NGOs Network (KONGONET) has called on the State Independent Electoral Commission to work on lapses noticed in the conduct of subsequent local government elections.
In its preliminary report, the KONGONET Observer Mission said though the election was conducted in a generally peaceful atmosphere, which is commendable, however, it noted instances of late arrival of election materials in several polling units, particularly in Lokoja, the state capital.
KONGONET added that reports from Ajaokuta, Ijumu, Olamaboro, Adavi, Okene and other local government indicated timely arrival of materials in some polling units, contributing to a smooth electoral process in those areas.
In the report signed by the Chairperson, Amb. Idris Ozovehe Muraina, KONGONET called on KOSIEC to work on the lapses and ensure early arrival of election materials to all polling units is essential for a seamless voting experience in subsequent polls.
The Kogi NGOs Network commended the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) for its enhanced openness towards civil society organizations.
“The accreditation of KONGONET and our deployment of 30 observers across various Local Government Areas (LGAs) and polling units demonstrates a positive step towards transparency in the electoral process.
“The development of a comprehensive training manual for electoral officers was a significant improvement. Our team was able to witness the training sessions for local government electoral officers, which were thorough and informative. The engagement with accredited observers by KOSIEC on 17th October, 2024 was constructive, and the timely disbursement of observation kits further facilitated our monitoring efforts,” the report noted.
KONGONET Observer Mission said while the overall process displayed modest improvement compared to previous elections, there was insufficient visibility of the voter register at polling units, which hindered voter verification.
It also called on security agencies to strictly adhere to movement restrictions to maintain order, integrity and encourage voter turnout during the election process.
It also tasked KOSIEC on the need to up its game in the area of publicity and sensitization of voters to improve election turnout.
“We remain committed to analysis and provide further detailed reports, as we continue to monitor the situation and analyze the outcomes of the entire elections process and put forward concrete recommendations to be delivered to KOSIEC to improve subsequent council’s elections in Kogi State.”
