Shocking Allegations of Election Rigging by INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) faces severe accusations of rigging the 2024 Edo State governorship election. Martins Obono, TAP Initiative’s Executive Director, recently revealed evidence suggesting INEC’s active role in election manipulation. He claimed to possess “incontrovertible evidence” implicating the electoral body in fraudulent practices. Obono’s allegations have raised concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes. His statements on Arise Television’s The Morning Show have sparked widespread concern over the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy.
Evidence of Duplicate Results Raises Red Flags
Obono highlighted discrepancies between the certified true copies (CTCs) of polling unit results and those uploaded to INEC’s iREV portal. He alleges that INEC created duplicate result sheets, each bearing identical serial numbers. According to Obono, the CTCs lack signatures, while iREV records are signed by party agents. “When we compared the CTCs with iREV’s records, we uncovered staggering anomalies,” Obono stated, adding that these discrepancies cast doubt on the election’s legitimacy.
Forensic Analysis Backs Claims of Fraud
In a move to substantiate these claims, TAP Initiative enlisted a renowned forensic handwriting expert previously affiliated with the Nelson Mandela Foundation. The forensic analysis, as Obono shared, confirms that multiple CTCs were forged by the same person. Obono accused INEC of betraying public trust, questioning, “If INEC can betray our trust, what does it mean for the future of democracy in Nigeria?”
Calls for Accountability from Anti-Corruption Agencies
Obono’s statements have intensified calls for action, urging the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) to investigate INEC officials. Obono expressed fears that failure to hold INEC accountable would encourage future election malpractice. “We have fought too hard for this democracy to allow it to be dismantled by the very institution meant to uphold it,” he warned.
PDP Raises Concerns Over INEC Officers
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) demanded the arrest of INEC official Obozuwa Josephine, accusing her of favouring APC results. PDP further questioned Resident Electoral Commissioner Anugbum Onuoha’s connection to Nyesom Wike, suggesting a conflict of interest. They raised concerns about Onuoha’s ties to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister and possible election bias.
INEC Official Defends Integrity Amid Criticism
Responding to accusations, Onuoha dismissed concerns about his connection to Wike, pointing to his academic and professional experience as evidence of his commitment to integrity. “The mere fact that I am a cousin to Wike does not preclude me from serving. Nigerians should move beyond such biases,” he asserted.
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