Concerns have emerged that the September 21st governorship election in Edo State could be influenced by key institutions responsible for conducting the polls – the Nigerian Police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa has raised suspicions that the former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, may have influenced the deployment of his associates to Edo State for political reasons.
The group in a statement signed by its South West Regional Coordinator, Alh. Azeez Olorunnimbe said, “The new Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Mr. Nemi Edwin-Iwo, hails from Okrika Local Government Area of Rivers State. Alongside him, Dr. Anugbum Onuoha serves as the Resident Electoral Commissioner in Edo State. Dr. Onuoha also comes from Rivers State and has previously served as the Special Adviser on Lands and Survey to the former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike. These affiliations and backgrounds have raised concerns about potential biases and conflicts of interest”, he said.
“We have uncovered disturbing evidence of an elaborate scheme aimed at compromising the integrity of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigerian Police. These institutions, which are crucial to ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process, are reportedly being manipulated in favor of a particular political party, namely the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“The plots to undermine the democratic process appear to be orchestrated by influential figures within the APC, including current governors, former governors, and ministers associated with the party. Their objective is to tilt the electoral playing field by leveraging these institutions for their advantage.
“We are deeply troubled by previous instances where security agencies have been complicit in compromising the credibility of elections. There have been reports of security forces aiding and abetting massive rigging operations, including the protection of political thugs and the provision of security to those perpetrating electoral fraud.
“Moreover, INEC has faced allegations of facilitating electoral fraud through means such as pre-filled result sheets. Such actions, if true, undermine the very essence of free and fair elections, and compromise the rights of citizens to freely and fairly elect their leaders.
“We call upon our international partners to closely monitor the situation and provide the necessary oversight to ensure that any attempts to undermine the electoral process are swiftly addressed. We urge both local and international observer groups to remain vigilant and proactive in their observations of the electoral process, ensuring that transparency and accountability are upheld at all times.
“Civil society organizations are also called to actively engage in advocacy and mobilization efforts to protect the integrity of the election.
“Finally, we appeal to the general public to stay informed and actively participate in safeguarding their democratic rights. It is crucial that any suspicious activities threatening the electoral process are reported promptly.
“The success of these alleged plots would not only erode the integrity and credibility of our electoral system but would also disenfranchise the people of Edo State, denying them their fundamental right to choose their leaders freely.
“We urge all stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure a transparent, credible, and fair electoral process.
“Democracy thrives on the active participation and vigilance of all its stakeholders, and together, we can protect the sanctity of our elections”,
