A group, Coalition of INEC-Accredited Civil Society Group Observers has faulted calls for cancellation of the just concluded Kogi governorship election on ground of violence and other irregularities.
Convener of the group, Matthew Olaniyan at a press conference in Lokoja on Wednesday said such calls were misplaced as the election according him was “largely peaceful” and smooth in its conduct.
“We must admit that, just like any other situation or in different climes, the complexity of the human society remains unquestionable and the vices arising from it subsists.
“There is no perfect situation. In some very few areas, there were pockets of the usual election issues, but most other places were undeniably peaceful and smooth”, he said.
He said the election in Kogi was a “huge success having been very keenly contested and also produced results that reflect the people’s wish”.
The convener advised all stakeholders and gubernatorial candidates who contested in the just concluded election to eschew political rivalry and join hands with the winner to move the state forward.
Olaniyan urged the winner to manifest magnanimity in victory and must be broadminded to foster unity and progress.
He commended the security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for their efforts in making the election a success.
