Civil Society Election Situation Room Statement on April 26 Elections

 

Election Situation Room

27 April 2011

Civil Society Election Situation Room Statement on April 26 Elections.

The Gubernatorial and State Houses of Assembly elections of 26 April 2011 were another significant step towards the consolidation of democracy in Nigeria. They took place against the background of considerable violence and fears that accompanied the presidential election the previous week. Although in general there was low turnout, reports from Civil Society Election Situation Room observers indicate that the elections were well organized and largely peaceful in many states of the federation. In other states, however, there were considerable reports of violence, ballot box snatching and other forms of electoral malpractice.

We note with satisfaction the high turnout of NYSC members following the post-election violence and the threats to its members in the wake of last week’s presidential election. In that respect, we commend the role of the security services in guaranteeing their participation in the just-concluded elections.

However, the Civil Society Election Situation Room has certain concerns as it relates to the conduct of these elections. Contrary to our call for the political authorities to ensure that the security forces discharge their duties in a professional manner, reports reaching us show that this was not always heeded in Akwa Ibom, Imo and Katsina.