Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress Slams Election Observer Group
In a strongly worded press statement, Nigeria’s All Progressives Congress (APC) has warned the civic group, Yiaga Africa, against undermining the integrity of the country’s election process. The group is accused of attempting to "second-guess" the results of the recent Edo State gubernatorial election, which has already been declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to Felix Morka, APC National Publicity Secretary, Yiaga Africa’s actions constitute overstepping its mandate as an election observer, usurping INEC’s statutory authority, and disrespecting the electoral process.
"Election observer missions are not election management agencies, and cannot usurp INEC’s statutory authority as the sole election management body in Nigeria," Morka emphasized. "Alleging that results were manipulated without hard facts and figures, but based on some statistical guesswork, is a clear disservice to the electoral process."
Yiaga Africa’s alleged baseless allegations about electoral manipulation, made without evidence, have drawn stern rebuke from the APC, which claims they create "unnecessary confusion."
"It is essential for Yiaga Africa to respect INEC’s statutory role and refrain from encroaching on the commission’s responsibilities. Election observers must work collaboratively with INEC and other stakeholders to maintain confidence in the electoral process, rather than trying to upstage them," Morka added.
Despite some criticism of the electoral process, the APC expresses its gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for ensuring a level playing field, praising INEC and law enforcement agencies for their professionalism during the election.
The party is pleased with the results of the election, which, as declared by INEC, saw Senator Monday Okpebholo win as the next governor of Edo State.
"While parties may have different interpretations, the good people of Edo State have made their choice clear," the party stated. "Disagreements should be addressed through the established electoral process and the courts, ensuring confidence in the system."
