By MARTHA AGAS AND RITA ILIYA

The Campaign for Democracy Human Rights Advocacy Civil Society (CD-CSO) Coalition, Niger Chapter, has urged the Federal Government and relevant agencies to ensure credible, peaceful and violence-free elections in Osun State.

The coalition made the call in a communiqué issued after its State Executive Committee meeting held on Saturday in Minna.

The communique Issued to newsmen on Sunday in Abuja was jointly signed by the State Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Mohammed and Secretary-General, Mr Tayo Ayobami.

It urged the Federal Government and agencies involved in the Aug. 15 Osun Governorship Election to ensure fairness, justice and security while protecting voters’ freedom and participation.

The coalition called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other stakeholders to ensure a free, fair, transparent and credible election, with zero tolerance for malpractice and violence.

It also urged the media to ensure that its reportage reflected accurate information to the public and follow-up on the activities from the polling units to the announcement of the final result.

The coalition said it was working with civil society organisations involved in voter mobilisation and media advocacy, alongside the newly approved and registered Democratic Leadership Alliance, to provide opportunities for interested individuals.

It said the platform would provide opportunities for ideologically focused, service-oriented, transparent, credible and honest individuals interested in elective public offices to participate in the 2027 general elections.

The coalition also advised opposition political parties in Niger to unite and mobilise citizens behind alternative leaders capable of competing favourably with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027.

It commended the Niger Government for its performance and achievements under Gov. Mohammed Umar Bago’s administration in the past three years.

The coalition, however, urged the administration to do more in social welfare, healthcare, education, pension matters, potable water supply, electricity, transportation and human security.

It said Improved delivery in those areas would help strengthen public confidence and improve the welfare of citizens ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The coalition announced plans, in partnership with stakeholders, community leaders, professional bodies and the media, to organise a town hall meeting with Bago on Nov. 19 in Minna.

It said the engagement would focus on transparency, the governor’s three-year stewardship and achievements in public service delivery to the people.

“Nigerlites are yearning for good governance and compassionate leaders with the fear of God and goal-getters to ensure improvements in the quality of people’s lives and welfare,” it said.

The coalition said such engagements would enable voters to make informed political decisions in the interest of the public ahead of the 2027 general elections. (NAN)

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