The Civil Society Election Situation Room would like to commend Nigerians for their determination in voting and protecting their votes in the 16 April presidential elections, as indeed they had demonstrated in the National Assembly elections held the previous week.
INEC has the responsibility to ensure that the results announced reflect the will of the people in accordance with the law; the politicians, in turn, have a corresponding duty to respect the results as announced.
At this stage, our network of observers from across the nation indicate that INEC’s preparation and organization of the elections was an improvement on the National Assembly elections the previous week, notably the timely delivery of materials and arrival of INEC officials, and the largely peaceful manner in which accreditation and voting took place. Security officials and youth corps members deserve commendation for their roles in bringing this about.
However, the Civil Society Situation Room observers also noted irregularities, including significant instances of underage voting, exceptionally high turnout figures, the unjustified arrest and intimidation of election observers, and allegations of massive ballot box stuffing and thumb-printing. We also received reports of violence in parts of the country, including the torching of government buildings, and the use of small arms and incendiary devices, resulting in several incidents of unlawful killings.
To further enhance the integrity of this process and its outcomes,, the Civil Society Election Situation Room urges INEC to respond promptly and transparently to any complaints arising from the process. Pending the announcement of results, parties and candidates should address any complaints to INEC in accordance with legal and constitutional procedures.
In the light of the above, the Situation Room is appealing to the citizens, political parties, institutions, and political, civic and community leaders to respect the sanctity of human life, the sanctity of the electoral process and the sanctity of the Nigerian Federation.
Further statements will be issued as necessary.
Issued 2.30 p.m. Sunday, 17 April 2011
For: Elections Situation Room
Dr Jibrin Ibrahim
Executive Director
Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD)
Tel: 0803 4001200
Clement Nwankwo
Executive Director
Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC)
Tel: 0803 8899999