Guardian
1 April 2011
Editor Opinion
IF the words of Prof. Attahiru Jega, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are any comfort, Nigerians should expect smooth and peaceful general elections starting with tomorrow’s poll for positions in the National Assembly.
Briefing newsmen after Tuesday’s meeting of the Council of State, Jega expressed how pleased he was that “one of the key issues at the Council of State today (Tuesday) was the commitment of all stakeholders to promote peace, to promote non-violence and to ensure that voters are adequately educated.”
But viewed against the manner in which violence, and wanton destruction of lives and property marred campaigns across the country, Jega’s optimism would appear misplaced. However, it is an optimism inspired by the necessity to make a success of this general election, despite the hitches that have so far been recorded.
That necessity is in itself understandable, having regard to the tremendous efforts in human, material and financial terms already made for the elections’ preparation. For this, the commission may have spent no less than N200 billion, the Police at least N50 billion, and the political parties even more.
Beyond his optimism, Jega’s charge to the nation indirectly, is an appeal that everyone should help to ensure the success of the elections, while eschewing activities capable of marring the credibility of the process. We join Jega and INEC in advancing this cause, and particularly to remind all Nigerians that this election provides a crucial test for the sustenance of our democracy.
This is a chance for the country to prove that it can manage political transitions, with decorum, and in accordance with the will of the people. It is instructive that President Goodluck Jonathan has similarly expressed such commitments. Political actors ought to heed his admonition that they should “cooperate with election officials to ensure that the elections are violence-free.”
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