The Electoral Hub has warned that the recent political developments in Nigeria especially the ongoing recall process of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, were potential threats to the country’s democratic integrity.
A statement by the Director IRIAD-The Electoral Hub, Princess Hamman-Obels in Abuja, said there was need for government institutions, political parties, civil society organizations, international partners, and citizens to take a decisive action to avert a preventable crisis.
According to the organisation, the recall process against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has been marred by allegations of fictitious signatures and procedural flaws, raising questions about the misuse of recall mechanisms for political vendettas.
To this end, “The Electoral Hub called on INEC to thoroughly investigate these allegations and ensure that all processes adhere to legal provisions. It also advocated for reforms to enhance the credibility of recall procedures and protect democratic institutions from abuse.”
“They emphasized the need for INEC to ensure transparency in handling recall petitions, for the government to uphold constitutional provisions while addressing security concerns, and for civil society organizations to promote peaceful dialogue and monitor government actions.”
Trailing the history of an escalation in the political instability in Rivers State when Governor Siminalayi Fubara took office to attempts to impeach him which led to violent incidents that worsened security challenges in the state, the Electoral Hub expressed concern over the lack of transparency in the Federal government’s decision to appoint Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the sole administrator of Rivers State under military administration for six months, and its potential impact on Federal-State relations.
“A state of emergency should be used sparingly and transparently to avoid undermining democracy and democratization.
“The organization urged the federal government to ensure that this intervention is temporary with focused solely on restoring peace, and conducted within constitutional frameworks. We call for the soonest reinstatement of democratically elected office holders from the governor to the state assembly members.
“These developments occur against a backdrop of significant economic challenges in Nigeria, including rising inflation, currency depreciation, and widespread unemployment.
“The Electoral Hub believes that strong democratic institutions are crucial for addressing these challenges effectively and called on all stakeholders to prioritize transparency, accountability, protection of human rights, expanding civic spaces, and rule of law to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
“The Electoral Hub remains committed to promoting electoral knowledge, accountability and integrity in Nigeria, safeguarding and strengthening democratic institutions. Recognizing the importance of robust democratic institutions in addressing both political and economic challenges facing the country.”
