INEC Failed Another Chance To Rebuild The Trust Of Nigerians With Off-Cycle Election- YIAGA Africa

YIAGA Africa says the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has failed to rebuild the trust of Nigerians in the electoral process with its conduct of the off-cycle governorship elections held in Kogi Benue and Bayelsa.

Making this assertion in a statement made available on its official X handle in the aftermath of the off-cycle governorship election that was marred by allegations of violence and mass electoral misconduct, YIAGA argued that the elections questioned the commitment INEC to electoral integrity and credible elections.

“The November 11 elections were another missed opportunity to rebuild trust & confidence in the electoral process. The elections question the commitment of democratic institutions to electoral integrity and credible elections,” a statement made available on the official social media handle of YIAGA read.

Naija News recalls that recently concluded off-cycle governorship elections that saw Duoye Diri, Hope Uzodimma and Usman Ododo emerge as winners were reported to be marred by vote-buying and other electoral fraud.

In Kogi, an ad-hoc staff was caught with a filled election sheet before the commencement of the governorship election, resulting in the cancellation of the election in about 59 polling units.

In Imo, oppositions accused the ruling party of conniving with INEC to generate figures in areas where elections were believed to not have taken place.

However, despite the irregularities record, the election umpire announced winners at the three off-cycle governorship elections that were held on Saturday.