Observers seek review of electoral laws, prosecution of offenders

An international election observer group, Pan African Women Projects, is seeking the review of the nation’s electoral laws and the prosecution of electoral offenders.

The group, which monitored the 2019 general elections in Akwa Ibom State, yesterday commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for conducting free and fair elections in the state.

Its spokesman, Ms Mphoentle Keitseng, said governorship and house of assembly elections were marred with irregularities such as vote-buying, ballot box snatching, intimidation/political thuggery, disruption of voting process among others.

Keitseng decried the heavy presence of military personnel in polling units which she said scared voters.

She advised the INEC to improve on the arrival of materials during the elections.

“We recommend prompt, immediate, total and holistic renew of our electoral laws. We appeal to Mr President to accent to the electoral bill to facilitate and regulate a proper conduct of subsequent elections in our country.

“To create election tribunal to prosecute electoral offences and punish the offenders of our electoral process. To promote sufficient funds for mass sensitization and security education for security agencies on electoral duties,”she stated.