National Orientation Agency Engages Stakeholders in Edo Governorship Election
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) convened a Stakeholders Forum in Benin City to promote a peaceful and credible governorship election on September 21. Attendees included representatives from security and para-military organizations, civil society groups, religious groups, political parties, media, and others.
Osahon Woghiren, State Director of NOA, emphasized the need to eliminate vote-selling and vote-buying, which he described as “trending vices” in the political landscape. He urged stakeholders to mobilize citizens to participate actively in the electoral process, exercise their civic responsibilities, and shun violence, intimidation, voter apathy, and harassment.
To foster citizens’ confidence in the electoral process, Woghiren called on traditional and religious leaders, youths, civil societies, market women, and non-governmental organizations to mobilize the public. He specifically cautioned youths against being used by unpatriotic politicians to disrupt the elections.
The event will be replicated in all 18 local government areas, where NOA field officers will mobilize citizens at the grassroots. Ebeli Okonkwo, representing NOA Director General Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu, assured voters of INEC’s commitment to a free and credible election, security agencies’ protection, and urged orderly conduct during the voting process.
