The Chairman of the Taraba State Independent Electoral Commission, TSIEC, Dr Philip Duwe, has defended the commission’s decision not to impose movement restrictions during the recently concluded local government elections, describing it as a progressive step aligned with global democratic standards.
Speaking on Sunday night at a post-election media briefing in Jalingo, Taraba State, Dr Duwe said the policy was designed to encourage greater civic participation without disrupting citizens’ daily economic activities.
He noted that the decision was reached after extensive consultations with security agencies and relevant authorities.
“When we are doing things, we need to have the global mirror. We are yearning to perfect democracy. In developed economies, there is never a restriction, except where the lives and property of citizens are threatened,” he explained.
According to Dr Duwe, the elections were conducted peacefully across the state, with no recorded incidents of violence or security breaches.
“We did it in the last election and there was no problem. The security agencies approved it. We conducted this one now and there was no iota of threat, no fight, no violence,” he said.
The TSIEC boss argued that total restrictions on movement during elections can be counterproductive, particularly in a developing society where many citizens depend on their daily income for survival.
“Why should you stop someone who makes his living from welding? Why shut down a market woman who should go out to get something for her children?” he queried.
Dr Duwe emphasised that the policy was carefully considered and implemented after wide consultations with security operatives, who were fully deployed to maintain peace and order throughout the exercise.
“I consulted widely with the security and governance authorities before we accepted the decision. Law enforcement agents were on ground to ensure tranquillity, and I think that is a best practice,” he said.
He further noted that credible elections require not only the casting of ballots but also sound planning and intellectual engagement.
“A number of people don’t understand this. We just sit and think about the election. Election requires your intellectual acumen,” Duwe added.
Responding to questions on post-election assessments, the TSIEC chairman revealed that he had hosted several executive chairmen and chairwomen from various states who visited Taraba to observe the elections.
“Just this morning, I received 23 executive chairmen and chairwomen from Akwa Ibom, Lagos, Nasarawa, and other states. Some are still expected to arrive by Tuesday,” he disclosed.
Duwe commended security agencies, election officials, and voters for their orderly conduct, describing the peaceful atmosphere as a sign of growing democratic maturity in Taraba State.
“We have been commended even by those who witnessed it. The process was peaceful, transparent, and reflective of the people’s will,” he concluded.
