News Investigators/ The Africa Democratic Congress candidate, Najeem Salaam, on Saturday decried disruption by hoodlums at his polling unit in Ward 4, Unit 13, Ejigbo Local Government Area.
Mr Salaam spoke while reacting to the incident shortly after casting his vote at his residence on Saturday, describing the disruption as a serious threat to his safety.
He said the incident appeared to be a planned attack against him, expressing concern that such actions could undermine democracy and prevent citizens from freely exercising their constitutional rights.
“How could we differentiate this from military rule when people’s vote doesn’t count,” he said, expressing concern over the impact of disruptions on the electoral process.
Mr Salaam also criticised the response of security operatives at the polling station, saying they failed to intervene promptly and effectively when the incident occurred during the voting exercise.
“It is expected, they could be conniving together with a political party,” he said, urging authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure adequate security.
Mr Salaam further warned that when security personnel failed to respond effectively to disturbances, citizens might become frustrated and resort to taking the law into their own hands.
He said such situations could worsen tensions and make crises increasingly common in communities, emphasising the need for security agencies to protect voters and maintain order.
“This is not election, it is a selection,” he said, expressing disappointment over the disruption and its implications for citizens’ confidence in the electoral process.
Mr Salaam appealed to the government and relevant authorities to protect democratic values, ensure peaceful elections and create an environment where citizens could freely choose their leaders.
He urged all stakeholders to promote peace, respect voters’ rights and strengthen democratic institutions so future generations could continue to enjoy credible and participatory elections.
NAN