Worried by seeming lack of preparation by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct free and fair election in the forthcoming general poll, the Odua Liberation Movement (OLM) has taken the initiative to train five thousand election monitors.
The group explained that going by inadequate arrangement by the INEC it has become imperative for Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and other organised groups like OLM to provide ancillary services in support of INEC preparations.
Speaking during a one day symposium organised by the OLM in partnership with Network Of Yoruba Alliance (NEYA) in Lagos at the weekend, national co-ordinator of OLM, Comrade Olugbenga Awosode said the event was put together as part of voter education initiated by the group.
Olugbenga noted that the postponement of the election and apparent disturbances across the country has created apathy in the minds of voters and there is need to reassure them of adequate security steps by government during the general elections.
He pointed out that the decision to train and deploy election monitors is to ensure that rigging is significantly minimised.
“The monitors are community leaders who are designated to monitor and report to OLM secretariat activities on the election days including possible human rights violation.
We call on our people to prepare for a long struggle for survival and livelihood as all evidence point to the fact that there would be crises no matter who wins the election’ he said.
The group however, demanded for restructuring of the country in such a way that federating units are allowed to develop at their own pace.
According to him, We therefore demand for immediate restructuring of Nigeria soon after the new government is inaugurated. Let there be no illusion that meaningful development and peace can be achieved in Nigeria by any political party or any person without first restructuring Nigeria.
Awosode also condemned military siege on the residence of APC leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Imo government house, describing it as reminiscence of military era.
The group also queried certain political alliances entered into by Yoruba leaders without the consent of the people.
“We also wish to state here that it is regrettable that since the campaign began, Yoruba Self Determination groups have been held in contempt by the Yoruba ruling elites considering the historic role played by these groups in the enthronement of democracy and for peace and security of our motherland.
It is unfortunate that leaders of political parties in Yorunba land have not been able to explain to the people and to constructively engage them on the content and form of alliances in either of the parties” Awosode stated.
By Yemisi Izuora