Ahead of the Saturday, September 21, 2024, Edo State governorship election, the Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), partners with an Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), and the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room (Organizers) held a one day sensitization rally in Etsako West Local Government Area, Auchi, Edo State to sensitize the people of the State on the need to abstain from violence before, during and after the election with the Theme, “No to Election Violence, Vote Diligently”.
The event commenced at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Auchi, where the assistant director of Justice Development and Peace Commission Rev. Fr. Afemikhe Bartholomew Ifumheshi stated that it’s crucial that we promote peaceful participation in elections, and that starts with saying no to election violence. The consequences of election-related violence can be severe, affecting not just the immediate victims but also the wider community, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of families
Fr. Bartholomew, the assistant director, while addressing the participants before the rally procession, said the reason for the procession is to sensitise the people of the state on the need to be peaceful before, during and after the election and also to brief the journalists about their mission which is to preach a credible and peaceful election in Edo state especially those who will be reporting at the local level of the state.
The priest added that educating people about the negative impact of violence on the electoral process and its aftermath is essential. This can be achieved through seminars, workshops, public lectures, and social media campaigns which we are embarking on today, starting from Auchi Poly road through royal block, sharp corner down to the ever–busy AP filing station, United Bank of African (UBA) and finally ends at Jattu junction.
Meanwhile, the National Orientation Agency of Nigeria Mrs Adebayo Sharon noted that by choosing to vote diligently for the candidate you believe is the best, you’re exercising your fundamental right and contributing to a peaceful democratic process. Let’s work together to promote non-violence and ensure that everyone can exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
During the peaceful sensitization rally, messages were conveyed during the rally using both print media and a public address system to further reinforce the need for peaceful, free, and fair elections in Edo State.
Market traders representatives took the rally to Uchi market and popular Igbo shield spot in Auchi as they all preaches that, voter intimidation is illegal, and you shouldn’t hesitate to speak up and seek help if you experience it.
In likes manner, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) were fully on ground as they engaged in maintaining law and order of the road procession, faith based organizations and Journalists participated, was taken through the Auchi Poly to Jattu junction in Etsako West, Auchi.
#VoteDon’tFight
#VoteRight
#GoOutAndVote
#VoteEasily
#ThereIsLifeAfterElection