From Msughshima Andrew, Makurdi
A non governmental organization Search for Common Ground, (Search) had stressed the need to sensitize political actors towards peaceful resolution of election matters.
Coordinator of the organization Mrs. Niri Goyit said this during a familiarization visit to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in Makurdi.
Mrs. Goyit called in INEC to work closely with Search to ensure that all parties in the future elections are properly inducted to maintain peace.
According to her, Search has engaged over 2000 persons during and after the 2019 elections to propagate peace, adding that they are involved in capacity building and sensitization to strengthen democracy in the country.
She further intimated that the organization works in violent prone States such as Plateau, Benue and other State in in resolving conflicts.
Goyit lauded INEC for the successful conduct of the 2019 election and sued for partnership with the electoral body to improve on election conduct in the future.
INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda acknowledged the laudable role Search for Common Ground has played in peace building during and after elections.
Represented by the Administrative Secretary, Mr. Gabriel Ishape, the REC emphasized the need to build peace amongst contesters since election is not a do or die affair.
He said the commission has been inundated with over 12 Pre-election and 31 post election Petitions, maintaining that election cases amount to waste of time and resources.
“Election is seen as war in the country especially amongst the elites. There is need to create awareness amongst the politicians and Electorates and for us, we are ready to partners with NGOs and CSOs to improve on the electoral system”, he said.
