Lack of knowledge about legal and electoral framework has been identified as a major catalyst in promoting fake news, rumors and violence during elections.
The executive director, Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA), Mr Ezenwa Nwagwu,made the indication during a town hall meeting on electoral reform,held in Kano.
He explained that the objectives of the town hall meeting were to foster inclusive dialogue among citizens from varied backgrounds concerning electoral reform and constitutional amendment.
Mr. Ezenwa noted that others are enhancing public understanding and awareness regarding electoral reform as well as compiling and presenting citizen-derived recommendations to the national assembly and INEC for consideration.
“We hope that participants would cascade the knowledge to the grassroot to promote peaceful coexistence and mutual understanding before during and after elections”
Kano State Commissioner of Police Muhammad Usaini Gumel described free fair and transparent elections as the backbone of democratic development and good governance.
According to him, Nigerians must uphold the rule of law by adhering to the electoral act and desist from malpractice to move the nation forward.
He pointed out that, civil societies are critical stakeholders in the election process that play a vital role in advocacy, sensitization, fact-checking, observation and all other important elements to achieve the desired objectives.
Others who spoke include the deputy commandant of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps Kano NSCDC Mr John and Assistant director National Orientation Agency NOA Kano state Office Maijidda Dalha Inuwa.
The event was marked by panel and breakout sessions where participants were divided into four groups on electoral integrity and transparency, voter education and participation, electoral system reform as well as electoral legal framework and institutional reform.
The event organized by PAACA witnessed a large turnout of civil society organizations CSOs, traditional institutions, media and all relevant stakeholders in the electoral process.
