The recent referendum that led to the creation of the six new regions has been rated as peaceful, but has also raised questions about fairness of the process.
A post-referendum survey conducted by an NGO, NORSAAC has revealed that the atmosphere and the composure of both security and electoral officials made it intimidating for free expression especially for people to exercise their constitutional rights like a “No” vote.
The report also revealed that about 80% of polling stations had only agents for “yes” while some polling stations had no agents at all.
Monitoring and Evaluation Manager at NORSAAC Issah Aminu Danaa said the referendum was characterized by some flaws and violations of electoral rules across all the 34 polling stations in 7 districts in the two proposed regions.
The NORSAAC led survey revealed that in about 90% of the polling stations observed, the electoral officers were not only spotted campaigning openly for the ‘Yes’ but were openly commanding people to go vote for the yellow, which represents yes.
The observers also noticed a high level of interest and participation of women and persons with disability (PWD) in the processes.
The report however commended the EC for ensuring the supply of adequate equipment and materials for the conduct the elections as there were no shortagesof any electoral materials in areas observed.
The Electoral Commission was also urged to apply procedurally the rules in cases of assisted voter so as not to violate the secrecy of the voter.
