HURIWA Calls on INEC to Uphold Credibility in Edo State Governorship Election

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the forthcoming Edo State gubernatorial election, set for 21st September 2024, is conducted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.

Emphasising the importance of credibility, the rights group urged INEC to seize the opportunity to restore public confidence after controversies marred the 2023 general elections.

In a statement released by Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, the association stressed that the Edo governorship election is a critical test for INEC, particularly under the leadership of its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

HURIWA expressed concerns that the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process is at stake and that the success of the Edo election would be pivotal in redeeming INEC’s image and bolstering public trust.

“The upcoming Edo election provides INEC with a chance to demonstrate its commitment to conducting elections that reflect the true will of the people.

We urge INEC to ensure that every step of the electoral process is transparent and free from manipulation.

This is an opportunity for INEC to redeem itself from the ‘sins’ of the 2023 general elections, where issues of rigging, logistical failures, and alleged bias were rampant,” the statement read.

HURIWA also highlighted the essential role of political parties, candidates, and their supporters in maintaining peace during the election.

The association called on all stakeholders to shun violence, intimidation, and vote-buying, emphasising that such actions undermine the democratic process and disenfranchise the people of Edo State.

“Every candidate and party must conduct themselves with decorum, ensuring that their actions do not incite unrest or contribute to a hostile voting environment,” HURIWA advised.

The group further urged security agencies deployed for the election to act impartially and to safeguard the rights of voters, election officials, and electoral materials.

HURIWA warned against any form of bias or undue influence by security forces, particularly the Nigeria Police Force, which has been accused of partisanship in the past.

“Security agencies must operate with the highest standards of neutrality. Every Nigerian, regardless of their political leanings, deserves the right to vote without fear of violence or intimidation.

Reports of police actions favouring one party over another, as alleged by Governor Godwin Obaseki, are troubling and must be addressed immediately to ensure a level playing field,” the statement continued.

HURIWA also took note of the inspection visits by INEC officials to Edo State, including the visit by INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

While acknowledging these efforts as positive signs of readiness, the association stressed that the true test lies in the actual conduct of the election.

“INEC’s preparatory actions are commendable, but they must be matched by a strict adherence to the principles of electoral integrity.

Only through unwavering commitment to fairness can INEC hope to rebuild its reputation,” HURIWA stated.

Moreover, HURIWA expressed concerns about the influence of external forces, particularly the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The group accused the APC-led federal government of attempting to manipulate the electoral process to establish a one-party state, which threatens Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

HURIWA referenced comments made by the APC’s National Chairman, suggesting an ambition to dominate the political landscape.

“The current administration’s actions suggest a dangerous trend towards undermining the democratic fabric of the nation. INEC must resist any attempts at manipulation from any political party or interest group.

The electoral body has a duty to protect the sanctity of the ballot and ensure that the people of Edo State can freely choose their leaders without external pressure,” HURIWA warned.

Reflecting on the 2023 general elections, HURIWA reiterated the criticisms that had plagued INEC’s performance.

The association pointed out that logistical challenges, technical failures, and allegations of result manipulation had eroded public trust in the electoral process.

HURIWA urged INEC to learn from these past mistakes and ensure that the Edo election does not suffer from similar shortcomings.

“INEC must strive to deliver on its promise of credible elections. Edo State, along with the forthcoming Ondo State election, serves as a litmus test for INEC’s commitment to electoral reform and transparency.

The Commission must use these opportunities to restore its credibility and prove that it can conduct elections that truly reflect the will of the electorate,” the statement concluded.

In the face of these challenges, HURIWA’s call to INEC underscores the broader demand for accountability and integrity in Nigeria’s electoral system.

As the Edo State gubernatorial election approaches, the actions of INEC, security agencies, political parties, and all involved stakeholders will be under intense scrutiny, with the hopes that a peaceful and fair election will set a positive precedent for future elections in Nigeria.