From David Onuoja, Abuja
The Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON), has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for what it described as the transparent, free, fair and credible conduct of the Osun State governorship election last Saturday.
In a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, BON said the election conducted under Professor Joash Amupitan-led Commission, represented a critical test for the electoral umpire.
The group noted that the outcome of the poll, if sustained and improved upon, could serve as a template for future elections across the country.
According to him, “the Osun State Governorship election was the real litmus test for INEC.
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“The outcome, if improved upon, could serve as a model for subsequent elections in the country.
“INEC deserves commendation for deploying all necessary resources and logistics that ensured voters could exercise their franchise without undue interference”, the statement said.
The broadcasting body also lauded security agencies for their role during the exercise. According to BON, the adequate deployment of personnel helped to minimise tension, curb criminality, and create an environment conducive for the election to hold peacefully.
However, BON stressed that commendation must be matched with accountability. Urging INEC and other relevant agencies to ensure the prosecution of all persons who perpetrated electoral crimes during the poll.
“It is imperative that INEC ensures the prosecution of all persons who perpetrated electoral crimes, to serve as a deterrent to others,” Dr. Bamgbose said”, while calling for strict enforcement of electoral laws ahead of future elections.
