APP protests, condemns planned relocation of election collation centres in Imo

Imo state chapter of Action Peoples Party (APP) has strongly condemned the reported attempt to relocate electoral collation centres in some parts of the State, particularly in Ideato North/South Federal Constituency, expressing serious concern over any similar development affecting the Nkwerre/Isu/Njaba/Nwangele (NINN) Federal Constituency and other electoral units of the State.

The party said it viewed any unilateral or poorly explained alteration to established electoral arrangements as a matter requiring urgent public clarification, transparency and strict adherence to due process.

In a statement signed by State chairman of APP, Hon. Ernest Njesi, said decisions affecting the electoral process of an entire constituency cannot and must not become the private affair of a few individuals.

“Such decisions have consequences for political parties, candidates, voters, traditional institutions, forum of Presidents-General, community leaders and ordinary citizens. They must therefore be handled openly, lawfully and with adequate consultation.

“Of particular concern is the reported justification of insecurity for the proposed movement of the Ideato collation centre. The people of Ideato North have lived and conducted their social, economic and civic activities in their communities for generations. If insecurity is being relied upon as the basis for such a significant administrative decision, then the relevant authorities owe the public a clear explanation and verifiable evidence supporting that position.

“We cannot allow vague claims or unexplained administrative decisions to become instruments for creating unnecessary tension among our people.

“Ideato North and Ideato South are communities whose people have shared relationships, traditions, markets, families and institutions long before the emergence of the present political administration. Likewise, the people of NINN have their own longstanding bonds that must not be subjected to unnecessary political tension.

“APP is particularly concerned that an ill-considered approach to electoral administration could create suspicion, mistrust and divisions among people who have historically lived as brothers and sisters.

“Imo State does not need electoral arrangements that divide its people. Imo State needs electoral institutions that unite confidence around a transparent process,” Njesi stated.

The party, therefore, called on the INEC and security authorities to publicly clarify the circumstances surrounding any proposed relocation of collation centres, make clear the legal and administrative basis for such decisions, and provide verifiable information concerning any security assessment being relied upon for the action.

It also asked for consultation of relevant stakeholders before implementing changes that substantially affect an electoral constituency, ensure that no political party, candidate or individual is given an undue advantage through administrative decisions, respect INEC and integrity of the electoral process, and avoid actions capable of creating unnecessary tension or division among neighbouring communities.

“APP will continue to stand for transparency, fairness, accountability and peaceful democratic participation.

“We call on the people of Ideato North, Ideato South and Nkwere, Isu, Nwangele and Njaba (NINN) to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding. Differences concerning electoral administration should be resolved through lawful institutions and established democratic processes, not through confrontation or division,” APP added.