Election observers decry electoral violence in Delta

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 The Coalition of INEC Accredited Election Observers for the 2015 general elections in Delta State has expressed worry over the high level of violence in the electoral process in the state.

Presenting the coalition’s report at a press conference in Asaba on Tuesday, the National Coordinator, Mr. Chris Azor, noted that at least two persons were killed during the elections in Delta State and appealed to political parties and politicians to desist from violence.

“We urge the security agencies and officials to always conduct themselves according to established standards of professional conduct,” he said.

The coalition said although the elections in Delta State were generally peaceful, free and fair, “there were pockets of violence during the exercise.”

Azor said, “In Eku community in Ethiope East Local Government Area, at least two persons were killed after violence erupted.”

The group called for thorough investigation of cases of manipulation at the collation centres and the prosecution of indicted culprits.

It also expressed concern over the high number of voided votes and blamed it on inadequate voter education and voter orientation.

The coalition of election observers noted that the conduct of the governorship and House of Assembly elections on April 11 election was better than that of the March 28 presidential and National Assembly elections.

“There was marked improvement on logistics and materials as well as prompt arrival of electoral materials and officials. However, the challenges of card reader machines and late arrival of materials in some areas did not completely abate,” it stated.