The cleric urged Christians to overcome fear and societal barriers.
The candidates spoke shortly after casting their votes at their various polling units amidst low voter turnout.
“We cannot allow the killing of innocent citizens and the activities of non-state actors in the form of criminals…to overtake the political space.”
The army said “IPOB has continued to intimidate and harass citizens who come out to do their legitimate businesses.”
One divisional police officer (DPO) and six “bandits” have been killed in Imo, say the police.
The incessant attacks further question the capacity of the security forces to protect indigenes of Imo State from the escalating insurgency.
“For those behind these crimes, they must understand that they do not have the monopoly of violence.”
