A Non-Governmental Organisation, TAF Africa, has commended the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) for the successful conduct of last saturday’s council polls. The group also praised the security agencies for doing their part, while noting that DSIEC made it possible for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) to be active participants at the polls.
The organisation observed that the security agencies were visible in all the wards and polling units across the 25 local government areas of the state.
The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the foundation, Jake Epelle spoke in Asaba at a news conference to present its final report on the election.
He said TAF Africa believes that PWDs should be active participants in the electoral process. He added that the foundation deployed a team to observe the election closely, saying DSIEC made exceptional efforts in ensuring a more inclusive and secured election environment.
He noted that “we observed that adequate security was provided in all polling units visited and notably, no violence was recorded throughout the election.
“This ensured a peaceful and orderly process, allowing voters to exercise their rights without fear.”
Epelle, however, noted that there was low voter turnout owing to voter apathy occasioned by experiences from previous elections.
He also said that some voters were not aware of the creation of new polling units, while calling for better sensitisation of the electorate in the future.
The organisation urged DSIEC to investigate why elections could not be held in Koko Ward 11, units 1, 2 and 3 in Warri North Local Government Area.
On the lessons, the foundation’s programmes manager, Mr. Adeolu Kilanko, said “voter apathy can pose a significant threat to the democratic system.”
Also, the TAF Africa Senior Communication Manager, Ms Lynn Agwuocha, lauded DSIEC for its stride toward an inclusive electoral process.
Agwuocha reiterated the foundation’s commitment to continue to advocate for the rights and inclusion of PWDs and work toward a more inclusive and participatory democratic process in the country. (NAN)
