THE APPOINTMENT OF INDIVIDUALS WITH CLOSE TIES TO WIKE FOR CRUCIAL POSITIONS IN THE UPCOMING EDO STATE GOVERNORSHIP ELECTIONS QUESTIONS THE FAIRNESS AND IMPARTIALITY OF THE ELECTORAL PROCESS.
THE EDO STATE ELECTORAL QUANDARY: A THREAT TO THE ENTRENCHMENT OF DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA.
EDO STATE ELECTORATE ARE IN A STATE OF PERPLXITY AND UNCERTAINTY…..A DIFFICULT SITUATION.
The Urgent Need for Dr. Anugbum Onuoha’s Transfer: Safeguarding Electoral Integrity in Edo State
Wike’s admission implies a conflict of interest that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process. To maintain the trust of the electorate and prevent any potential bias, Dr. Onuoha’s transfer is necessary.
The recent revelations that Wike’s cousin is the EDO INEC REC and his ally as the state police commissioner have sparked widespread concern among stakeholders in the upcoming governorship election in Edo State, scheduled for September 21st, 2024. This development has far-reaching implications for the credibility of the election process and the impartiality expected of state actors involved in the conduct of the election.
This development in Edo State ahead of the Governorship elections raises serious concerns about the potential for bias and partiality in the upcoming governorship election in Edo State. The appointment of Wike’s cousin as INEC REC and his ally as the state police commissioner creates a clear conflict of interest, which could compromise the integrity of the electoral process.
The concentration of power in the hands of individuals with clear political affiliations undermines the principles of fairness, transparency, and accountability that are essential for democratic elections. The REC and state police commissioner play pivotal roles in ensuring the integrity of the electoral process. By appointing Wike’s relatives and allies to these positions, the integrity of the election is compromised, and the potential for bias and manipulation is significantly increased.
This development will likely impact the forthcoming governorship election in several ways. Firstly, it will erode trust in the electoral process, leading to voter apathy and disillusionment. Secondly, it will create an uneven playing field, where one candidate may receive preferential treatment, thereby compromising the fairness of the election. Finally, it will undermine the legitimacy of the election outcome, leading to disputes and potentially destabilizing the state.
To mitigate these risks, it is essential to take immediate action. The appointments of Wike’s cousin and ally should be rescinded, and neutral officials appointed in their place. Additionally, measures should be put in place to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the electoral process.
This situation may impact the election in several ways if the proper thing is not done:
This will lead to a biased decision-making process because with Wike’s relatives and allies in key positions, there’s a risk of biased decision-making, which could favor one candidate over others.
We need citizens not to lose trust especially when it comes to the conduct of elections in Nigeria, such development may erode trust in the electoral process, leading to voter apathy or disputes over the election’s outcome.
The cornerstone of democracy and election is Impartiality and when such is in doubt then the possibility of compromise is inevitable. The presence of state actors with clear political affiliations undermines the impartiality expected of them, potentially influencing the election’s outcome.
They should be equal playing field for all candidates and Political Parties in the country and conferring Unfair advantage on one against others will undermine the cardinal principles of democratic elections. Wike’s allies may use their positions to create an unfair advantage for their preferred candidate, compromising the level playing field essential for credible elections.
To maintain the integrity of the electoral process, it’s crucial to ensure the independence and impartiality of state actors involved in the election. This may require:
We demand the Immediate removal of Wike’s cousin and ally from their positions. So in lieu of the fact stated above we hereby demand the following in accordance with best practices:
•We demand the appointment of neutral officials to oversee the election.
•We Demand credible elections With Increased transparency and accountability measures put in place before the 21st of September, 2024.
•We urge the INDEPENDENT NATIONAL ELECTORAL COMMISSION (INEC) to take immediate action and transfer Dr. Onuoha to safeguard electoral integrity in Edo State.
The appointments if allowed to continue pose a significant threat to the credibility and impartiality of the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State. Urgent action is required to address this situation and ensure a fair, transparent, and accountable electoral process.
The credibility of the election process depends on ensuring a level playing field, impartial state actors, and transparency.
CHIEF PETER AMEH
NATIONAL SECRETARY, CUPP.
FORMER NATIONAL CHAIRMAN IPAC.
EX PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE.
