Rep faults ‘militarisation’ of elections

BENIN—HOUSE of Representatives Minority Whip, Mr. Samson Osagie, has condemned what he called the militarisation of elections in the country by President Goodluck Jonathan-led Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, government, noting that the practice will not only lead to voters’ apathy, but that same lacks constitutional and legal backing. Osagie, who represents Uhunwonde/Orhionmwon federal constituency in the National Assembly, also queried proponents of part time legislation, saying that those against full time legislation do not understand the workings of legislators. Speaking with newsmen in Benin, Edo State, yesterday, he said: “I think it is not within any constitutional or legal framework to involve military in elections. Election is a civil process and the civil security operatives should be capable of providing security. “Leave it or take it, the presence of military on the streets on the day of election has a way of affecting the psyche of the people. “We are not in a war situation and we should not give Nigerians that impression. We have several wars we should fight with the military.” - See more at: http://www.vanguardngr.com/2014/08/rep-faults-militarisation-elections/#sthash.UpcM5bAv.dpuf