AHEAD of gubernatorial election in Ekiti State this weekend, a security report by independent observers has identified potential trouble spots that security agencies must watch out for to forestall electoral violence. Besides, the observers under the aegis of CLEEN Foundation have called for proper training of security handlers on election security management, as they also warn politicians and party agents to desist from inciting phrases like “rig and burn.” The report, titled: “CLEEN Foundation’s Election Security Brief (ESB)” advised that the best strategy to effectively stem electoral violence during the June 21 election was for security agencies to be prepared to deal with issues of electoral violence in all 177 wards and 16 local councils across Ekiti State. In addition, “preparing for the worst case scenario may be the best, as contest for the governorship election increases in intensity,” the observers said. The potential flashpoints they have identified include Ishan, the governor’s area, and every district where major political figures and appointees come from need to be watched. Another is Emure, which historically has always been problematic and right now, “every candidate will want to win there because it is easier to have a local council once you win in Emure.” Ikere, according to the observers, has a reputation for being volatile. “There seems to be more sympathy for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) though the All Peoples Congress (APC) is very strong there. Any electoral outcome against the popular will of the people may result in violence.” Ijero and Ikole: also needs to be “seriously” watched. Irepodun – PDP’s Ayo Fayose and LP’s Opeyemi Bamidele are from this council – “this significantly raises the likelihood of violence.” Efon and Oye also need to be watched, particularly Oye where the incumbent governor, Kayode Fayemi comes from. “Ido Osi: The people of Ido Osi are still bitter that their votes did not count in the disputed election between Kayode Fayemi and their son, Segun Oni. Despite the defection of Segun Oni to the APC, the people are prepared to ensure that their votes count and particularly they are prepared for Kayode Fayemi. Gbonyin: The Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly is from here and it is a spot to watch,” the report reads in part. No fewer than 18 political parties have been cleared to contest and field candidates for the gubernatorial election. “Regardless of the number of parties and candidates, the real contest is expected to be between APC, PDP and LP.” Key Risk Factors (KRFs) also identified in the report are delay or non-arrival of election materials and personnel, which may be misinterpreted as an attempt to rig the election; history of electoral violence in the state and incidents of violence that have characterised the campaign period and mutual suspicion of rigging between the parties and candidates, and threats of violence, coupled with the possibility of influence from either the federal or regional level.
Posted on: Mon, 16 Jun 2014 06:39:14 +0000
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