My Life Is In Danger - Ekiti REC Commissioner Cries Out

As the July 14 governorship election in Ekiti state draws near, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ekiti, Prof. Abdulganiyu Raji has cried out that his life is in danger. 

Prof.  Abdulganiyu Raji

 

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ekiti, Prof. Abdulganiyu Raji, on Thursday alleged a threat  to his life by  unknown persons.

 

The INEC boss, who spoke at  a stakeholders  forum held in Ado-Ekiti ahead of the July 14 governorship election in the state, said he had been receiving strange calls from people threatening him  if he fails  to succumb to their bidding.

 

He appealed to all security agencies  in the state to come to the aid of the commission by providing  security for  INEC officials as well as the over 10,000 corp members to be deployed for the conduct of the election.

 

The INEC boss also said no fewer than 23 political parties had formally notified the commission  of their primaries.

 

Meanwhile, the police have warned political parties and aspirants participating in the election against embarking on campaigns without first seeking clearance.

 

Outgoing Commissioner of Police, Abdulahi Chafe, said all parties and their aspirants must also obtain clearance before embarking on any procession.

 

He said this was without prejudice to the need for cooperation with other agencies.

 

According to him, other security agencies are also to enforce the laws guiding such rallies and processions, particularly those specified in sections 94, 95 and 96 of the Electoral Act 2010  which forbid  certain conduct  at political rallies, procession and campaigns.

 

He said  the police  and other security agencies have  a duty to arrest erring persons and bring them to justice.

 

The police boss also announced that he would be retiring from service on May 5, adding that  a new commissioner would be deployed to the state.

 

He further said the command was adequately prepared  for the election and would ensure  security of  life  and property. 

 

-NAN