Edo: Coalition demands police neutrality

The Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa has issued a fervent petition to international communities, pro-democracy organizations, and human rights watchdogs, sounding the alarm over the potential manipulation of security forces ahead of the highly anticipated Edo State gubernatorial election, slated for September 21. The petition, signed by the Country Director of […]

The Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa has issued a fervent petition to international communities, pro-democracy organizations, and human rights watchdogs, sounding the alarm over the potential manipulation of security forces ahead of the highly anticipated Edo State gubernatorial election, slated for September 21.

The petition, signed by the Country Director of the Coalition, Mr. John Mayaki, on Sunday, warned against what it described as a looming threat to Nigeria’s democratic integrity if the Nigeria Police Force failed to maintain neutrality.

Citing growing concerns of bias, the Coalition accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which controls the federal government, of attempting to leverage its influence over the police to tilt the electoral scale in its favor.

The petition detailed fears that the police, which fall under federal jurisdiction, may be weaponized as a tool for voter suppression and political intimidation.

“The police have come under suspicion for aligning with the ruling APC, given that the party controls the federal government, and by extension, the police. But the stakes of democracy are far too high for us to allow the Force to become a pawn in the hands of a political party,” Mr. Mayaki declared.

Continuing, he said, “The Nigeria Police Force must rise above partisanship and provide a level-playing field for all candidates. Anything less would be a gross betrayal of democracy.”

The statement further warns that any attempt by the police to meddle in the electoral process would not only damage the credibility of the election but also erode public trust in law enforcement and the institutions meant to protect Nigeria’s fledgling democracy.

His words, “This brazen threat to deploy federal might is a direct assault on the principles of free and fair elections. The police must not allow themselves to become the enforcers of political impunity.

“Elections are the cornerstone of democracy. Allowing security forces to take sides or intimidate voters in any way will only plunge Edo State into chaos and disenfranchise its citizens.”

In a bid to prevent electoral malpractice, the Coalition called on international bodies such as the United Nations, European Union, Amnesty International, and the United States Department of State to put Edo State under close surveillance, ensuring that law enforcement remains nonpartisan and that the rights of voters are safeguarded throughout the process.

The statement called for decisive action from both domestic and international observers to ensure that the Nigeria Police Force acts in accordance with the law, placing the sanctity of the democratic process above all else.

The Coalition vowed to remain vigilant, promising to hold the government and the police accountable for any attempt to subvert the electoral will of the people.

“Insecurity, bias, and the misuse of security forces are enemies of democracy. The Nigeria Police Force must demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law by remaining neutral. Edo State and indeed the entire nation are watching.”