The Network of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria says it is satisfied with the conduct of political parties and other stakeholder before the Nov. 4 local government election in Enugu State.
The National Coordinator of the group, Mr Victor Kalu said this on Friday in Enugu while briefing newsmen on the group’s pre-election observations.
Kalu said that only few skirmishes were recorded in some rural areas while campaigns by political parties were largely peaceful.
He commended the Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission (ENSIEC) for discharging its duties by providing a level playing ground for all political parties.
The group, Kalu said, was delighted with the enthusiasm demonstrated by all participants, adding that election preparations had never been this encouraging in the state.
He said that credit must be given to the state government for fully equipping ENSIEC and giving it the freedom to discharge its functions.
“In proving their transparency, we observed that ENSIEC has concluded arrangements to accredit and mobilise domestic election observers and journalists to observe the election and report accordingly.
“We really commend the state government for considering it necessary to conduct this election not minding the economic challenges,” the coordinator said.
Kalu said the group observed the activities of strong and formidable opposition parties, which had made the contest more interesting unlike what obtained in the past.
“Before now it was like Enugu was a one party state, but we now see opposition parties doing their best.
“The campaigns have been encouraging compared to what it was in the past,” he said
He appealed to the election umpire to give priority to areas with difficult terrain in the state in terms of distribution of election materials to ensure quick and timely commencement of the exercise.
Kalu equally appealed to security agencies to be alive to their responsibilities before, during and after the election.
He urged them to arrest anyone who violates the electoral law or causes a break down of law and order.
Kalu appealed to the state government not to interfere in the conduct of the election to ensure that the will of the people was not subverted. (NAN)
