#Ekitidecides: Bishop slams militarisation of the state

GBENRO ADESINA, SIMON ATEBA & NKRUMAH BANKONG-OBI/ADO-EKITI

Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Reverend Felix Femi Ajakaye has criticised the heavy presence of security agents in the state, likening it to a state of war.

Ajakaye, in a statement said, “with the massive deployment of security personnel and equipments, the atmosphere is that of war, not election. The Civil Defence is not left out too in the show of power. By their words and utterances, most of these security agents are poised for war as if there is insurgency in Ekiti.”

Ajakaye condemned the barring of some APC governors from Ekiti State: “the order from ‘above’ not to allow Edo and Rivers States Governors, Adams Oshiomhole and Rotimi Amaechi to travel to Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday 19, June 2014, for their party’s final campaign towards the governorship election is a glaring example of misuse of power. It is undemocratic, dictatorial and a step towards anarchy. Are some Nigerians now personae non grata in their own country?”

He also charged the residents of the state to shun all forms of intimidation and harassment from the security agents: “the electorates must endure and sacrifice. They must be determined to vote for a credible and worthy ambassador of Ekiti State who will promote good governance at all levels as Ekiti State Governor. Let us reflect deeply on yesterday and plan well today for a successful tomorrow. A mistake made today tends to have negative effect on tomorrow. Today is the anniversary of yesterday, while tomorrow is the celebration of today.”