As the political parties prepare for primaries in preparedness for the September 21, 2024 Governorship election in Edo State, the Concerned Edo Citizens Forum (CECF) has cautioned all the political parties in the state to ensure a free, fair and credible primaries to avoid potential crisis in the state.

This position is contained in a release that was made available to journalists weekend.

The group is warning the parties not to set Edo State on fire.

“It has become necessary to call on all political parties to conduct free, fair and credible primaries that will be acceptable to all. Don’t set Edo on fire with unholy primaries.

“Political Parties must demonstrate character of commitment and transparency in the entire process and processes of the primaries.

“Edo people are politically mature, sophisticated and disciplined. Therefore, imposition of candidates will not be accommodated, people must be allowed to choose their choice without intimidation and harassment, the will of the people must prevail according to the principles of democracy and Democratic tendency.

“As concerned citizens of Edo and critical stakeholder in Edo projects, we also use this opportunity to call on politicians not to undermine the doctrines of democracy for selfish gains but promote collective will for the prosperity of all.

“Furthermore, any candidate who will manipulate the process for personal gains will meet the people at the general election. We shall mobilise any candidate who try to steal or undermine the process at the general election. We commend all aspirants who have played according to the rule of engagement and maintain peaceful disposition,” CECF stressed.

“We hope to monitor all the primaries and report accordingly as we prepare for the general election and Aspirants must reach out to the people, connect directly with the people because no single individual can make you to win election. We call for level playing field for all aspirants to make the process people-oriented,” Comrade Roy Oribhabor, convener of Concerned Edo Citizens Forum said.