Court Directs INEC to Probe Electoral Violence Involving Governors

A court has mandated INEC to investigate allegations of electoral violence perpetrated by governors. Read about the implications and next steps in this crucial electoral process.

The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Obiora Egwuatu, has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to engage an impartial legal representative to probe incidents of electoral violence and other transgressions perpetrated by state governors and their deputies during the upcoming 2023 general elections.

The directive was issued as a result of a legal action initiated by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), which aimed to enforce INEC’s obligation to identify and bring to justice those responsible for electoral crimes.

Justice Egwuatu stressed the importance of INEC being responsible for holding state governors, their deputies, and others accountable regarding instances relating to electoral violence, bribery in elections as well as plotting with intent to purchase votes.

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Furthermore, he directed the INEC to take legal action against all culprits who were apprehended during the 2023 elections and are presently being detained by various law enforcement agencies like Nigeria Police Force, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) among others.

Egwuatu stated that he has thoroughly examined the depositions in SERAP’s affidavit with empathy, and finds no grounds to question their validity. He particularly acknowledges supporting documentary evidence for the claims made. Moreover, Egwuatu concurs with SERAP’s application and recognizes its significance as a lawful stakeholder concern regarding INEC fulfilling its civic obligations. As such, Egwuatu granted their appeals honoring them on merit basis alone.

In Nigeria, the judge emphasized how electoral violence can negatively affect both the country’s democratic and economic progress. The judge acknowledged that this type of activity hinders citizens’ ability to freely vote in elections and limits opportunities for reputable leaders to take office. Additionally, he commended SERAP for its devotion to seeking justice through investigating and charging those who commit wrongdoing during election processes.

In addition to referring to the Nigerian Constitution and Electoral Act 2022 as references for INEC’s duties on prosecuting electoral offenses, Justice Egwuatu emphasized that citizens have a responsibility to participate constructively in their societies. He further accentuated backing legal organizations in preserving lawfulness and peace.

INEC’s appointment of an independent counsel is aimed at investigating accusations of bribery, conspiracy, and undue influence involving state governors and their deputies to promote fair electoral practices in Nigeria while ensuring accountability.