C'River Bye-election: Amb. Nkoyo Toyo Calls On INEC, Security Operatives To Ensure Violence-free Poll, Decries Importation Of Thugs

Amb. Nkoyo Toyo

 

A governorship aspirant under the PDP, Ann Nkoyo Toyo has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure that results from any polling unit marred by violence is not allowed to affect the general outcome of elections as voters prepare to vote for candidates of their choice during the bye election in Akpabuyo state constituency and Ogoja/Yala Federal constituency.

Amb Toyo who is a former Nigerian ambassador to Ethiopia said this in a statement released by her media team early Friday.

According to the statement, “ This morning we received from different sources, news of impending clashes between political rival interests in Akpabuyo. It will seem once again that a dark cloud is gathering over the bye elections taking place on Saturday 26 February 2022. Our national political history has taught us that violence is a needless aggravation which is often futile as it really does not impact the outcome of any election but leads to unnecessary loss.

“We are hopeful following the INEC facilitated PEACE ACCORD that all polling units will ensure that the casting of votes is without eventualities. No individuals or group should be allowed to benefit from the blood or hurt of others” she concluded

The former lawmaker and diplomat also condemned in strong terms the importation of thugs by some persons into the state as Cross Riverians are known to be peace loving.

According to her “ the alleged importation of thugs, the alleged block booking of hotels to house external elements in Akpabuyo, the allegations that some have resorted to procuring camouflage uniform to conceal their true identities and the stories making the rounds that people will be terrorized and prevented from moving around is rather sad.

“We call on all to stand up and see that the people are allowed to cast their votes freely and the votes count. We condemn all forms of aberation and call for calm, decency and probity” the statement reads.

Tomorrow Saturday 26, voters in Akpabuyo state constituency will join their counterparts in Ogoja/Yala federal constituency to vote in what is perceived to be probably the most contested election in the recent history of the state.