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SERAP Urges INEC To Investigate Govs, Deputies Over Election Violence

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INEC Officials Held Captive Over Missing Declaration Form

 

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, to quickly appoint an impartial legal representative to look into accusations of electoral violence and other electoral crimes, such as bribery, against state governors and their deputies during the recent general election.

In addition, SERAP also urged Professor Mahmood Yakubu to take swift and decisive action in carrying out the investigation.

The organization further emphasized the need for the identification of suspected perpetrators and their sponsors, and ensured their effective prosecution, without regard for their political status or affiliations.

In a letter signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, dated March 25, 2023, the organization stated that by allegedly participating in electoral violence and other electoral offences “in so blatant a fashion” suspected perpetrators and their sponsors have unequivocally violated constitutional provisions, international standards and the Electoral Act.

SERAP pointed out that Section 52 of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act grants INEC the authority to request the appointment of an independent counsel to investigate allegations of electoral violence and other electoral offences, including bribery, that may have been committed by state governors and/or their deputies.

The organization further urged INEC to collaborate with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and other law enforcement agencies to promptly identify any politicians and their sponsors who are suspected to be responsible for electoral violence and other electoral offences during the elections.

“Identifying, arresting, investigating and prosecuting those suspected of perpetrating electoral violence and other electoral offences during the 2023 general election would act as a deterrent against electoral violence in future elections.

“We would be grateful if immediate steps are taken to implement the recommended measures within seven days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel INEC to comply with our request in the public interest.

“Acting swiftly to address the brazen impunity and reports of electoral violence and other electoral offences during the 2023 general election would also send a strong message to politicians that INEC under your leadership would not tolerate any infringement of the electoral process,” SERAP said.

SERAP emphasized that electoral violence poses a significant threat to free and fair elections, and is incompatible with the principles of democracy, the rule of law, transparency and accountability. The organization further stated that it is unacceptable for politicians to allegedly resort to violence as a means of disrupting the electoral process.

As reported by the Centre for Democracy and Development, violence and/or fighting occurred in multiple polling units across the country during the elections.

SERAP asserted that the violent incidents during the elections were frequently concentrated in political strongholds of the opposition or perceived opponents.

This pattern of violence suggests that the use of Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) – which is designed to prevent overvoting – may have resulted in a more coordinated effort to prevent citizens from casting their votes in opposition strongholds.

“Similar incidents of intimidation were reported in all geo-political zones,” it added.

 

 

 

 

 

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“PDP Can’t Unseat Tinubu with Wike in Charge” — Ulasi Blows Hot, Threatens Exit

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A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, Dan Ulasi, has warned that the party stands little chance of defeating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections if Nyesom Wike continues to play a leading role while allegedly supporting the ruling government.

Ulasi, who spoke during an interview on Arise TV on Thursday, expressed deep concern over what he described as a “contradictory situation” within the PDP, stressing that such internal inconsistencies could weaken the party’s credibility and chances at the polls.

ALSO READ: ‘I Didn’t Mean It Literally’ — Nyesom Wike Clears Air as Atiku Abubakar Fires Back

“I don’t see my party as presently constituted challenging Tinubu with Wike as national leader,” Ulasi said, warning that he may be forced to leave the party if the issue is not addressed.

The PDP stalwart argued that Wike cannot effectively serve as a leader in the opposition while maintaining close ties with President Tinubu, describing the situation as “unconstructive” for a party seeking to reclaim power at the national level.

He further questioned what role Wike would play if another candidate emerges as the PDP’s presidential flag-bearer ahead of the 2027 election, asking whether the former Rivers State governor would actively participate in party rallies or align with the ruling party’s activities.

Ulasi warned that the party’s next meeting could be his last if its leadership fails to provide satisfactory explanations, insisting that he cannot continue to be part of a process riddled with contradictions.

In a related development, Ulasi revealed that Peter Obi had visited him several times this year, including a recent meeting following an appearance in Enugu.

He spoke positively about Obi’s vision for Nigeria, noting that the former presidential candidate offers a sense of hope for the country’s future, although he stopped short of declaring any political alignment.

Reflecting on his longstanding ties to the PDP, Ulasi recalled his role during the party’s formation alongside late former Vice-President Alex Ekueme and other founding members.

Despite his deep connection to the party, he maintained that he would rather step aside than remain in a system he considers inconsistent.

He added that if he eventually exits the PDP, he has no plans to join another political party, stating that he would instead operate as a private consultant.

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Drama in Ogun APC as Gbenga Daniel Claims He Was Barred From Meeting

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There was tension within the Ogun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday after former Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, alleged that he was barred from attending a stakeholders’ meeting of the party held in Ijebu Ode.

The meeting, which took place at Adeola Odutola Hall, was reportedly convened to bring together key party stakeholders, including current and former local government chairmen, councillors, and serving as well as former lawmakers from both state and national levels.

However, the senator, in a viral video circulating online, claimed he was denied entry into the venue despite being part of the expected attendees.

ALSO READ: “APC Failure in Disguise?” — Dickson Tears Into ADC Coalition

Speaking from his branded campaign bus parked at the venue, Daniel expressed disappointment over the situation, saying he and his team were stopped from accessing the meeting.

He further questioned the legitimacy of any resolutions reached at the gathering, suggesting that the outcome of the meeting should not be considered valid.

As of press time, the Ogun State APC leadership had yet to issue an official response to the allegation.

 

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Who Leads ADC? Supreme Court to Hear Mark’s Appeal in Heated Party Rift

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The lingering leadership crisis within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is set for a crucial legal test as the Supreme Court of Nigeria prepares to hear an appeal filed by former Senate President, David Mark.

Mark is challenging a legal action brought by a former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Nafiu Bala, over the control and leadership structure of the ADC.

The case, scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, is expected to determine the direction of the party amid deepening internal divisions.

SEE MORE: 2027: Why ADC, Opposition Leaders Stormed INEC in Abuja

Through his lawyer, Realwan Okpanachi, Mark is seeking an order to stay the execution of a Court of Appeal judgment delivered on March 12, pending the final resolution of the matter.

He also urged the apex court to restrain the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from making any alterations to the party’s leadership as currently constituted under his faction.

In addition, Mark is asking the court to suspend further proceedings in a related suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite.

The dispute dates back to a September 4, 2025 ruling by the Federal High Court following an ex parte application filed by Bala, which has since fueled competing claims to the party’s leadership.

The ADC has, in recent months, been embroiled in a bitter factional crisis, with rival camps asserting legitimacy.

The situation has been worsened by conflicting court orders and administrative uncertainty surrounding who truly leads the party.

Tensions escalated after INEC reportedly removed Mark as the party’s national chairman from its official records, sparking protests by his loyalists.

The demonstration drew prominent political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi.

In response, the Bala-led faction staged a counter-protest, insisting on recognition by INEC as the legitimate leadership of the party.

As the battle shifts to the Supreme Court, political observers say the outcome could decisively shape the future of the ADC, particularly as political alignments begin to take form ahead of upcoming elections.

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