NIGERIANS United for Democracy (NUD) a non governmental organization (NGO) championing the cause of genuine democracy, good governance, unfettered human rights, political accountability and societal prosperity has been launched in Benin City.
Speaking to newsmen at the launch of the NGO in Benin City yesterday leader of the group representing stakeholders on conflict resolution and early warnings (SCREW) Comrade Igbotako Nowinta said the recent uproar in our democratic arena led the coalition of Edo State Civil Society to resuscitate the Nigerians United for Democracy Edo State chapter to swiftly react to the pressing demands and to redirect step by the government over what one can term as undemocratic policy playout.
“We were confronted with the quagmire of election postponement which was tied to the clamour for an extension of the 2015 general election date as this would create the needed secured environment for a peaceful conduct of the election.”
“We must not forget that the INEC boss; Prof. Attahiru Jega has repeatedly assured Nigerians of his readiness to conduct a successful 2015 general elections, strongly relying on the use of card readers. He added that Nigerians should expect a better 2015 general election than that of 2011 which majority of Nigerians will accept was successful, an overwhelming victory, that began the administration of president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
“Having critically taken an appraisal of the present situation in Nigeria, nay Edo State, we hereby state unequivocally as follows: Political parties fielding candidates in the March 28th and April 11th 2015 general elections should eschew violence in all ramifications; Professor Attahiru Jega led Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should provide a smooth playing field for all parties fielding candidates in the general elections; PVC and card readers as introduced by INEC should be used for the conduct of the general election.”