Labour seeks scrutiny of INEC, security agencies ahead of Osun gov election
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
The Organised Labour in Osun State has called on the international community to closely monitor the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and political actors before, during and after Saturday’s governorship election.
The labour unions, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Joint Public Service Negotiating Council (JPSNC), made the call in Osogbo ahead of the August 15 election.
According to the unions, international oversight is necessary to ensure that all institutions and actors involved in the electoral process operate within the law.
Reading the unions’ resolution, NLC state Chairman, Christopher Arapasopo, urged the international community to closely monitor the conduct of INEC, security forces and political actors throughout the electoral process.
He said copies of the resolution and security alert had been formally forwarded to relevant national and international authorities for immediate action.
The unions also called on security agencies to take firm action against vote-buying, electoral malpractice and rigging to protect the integrity of the election.
They further demanded that all eligible voters be allowed to exercise their franchise freely without harassment, victimisation or intimidation, stressing that voters should be able to make their choices without interference.
The unions called for a peaceful election, saying the protection of the lives and property of residents, particularly workers and pensioners, remained their priority before, during and after the polls.
