The Organisation for the Advancement of Nigerians (OAN) and its partner organizations have urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to address the issues encountered during the February 25 polls in preparation for the upcoming March 11 elections. The presidential and National Assembly elections held on February 25, 2023, have since sparked controversy regarding their results. In a statement on behalf of 20 Nigerian organizations, OAN Chairman Mr. Olayinka DanSalami emphasized the need for INEC to rectify these errors before the governorship and state assembly elections. He asserted that Nigerians have the right to voice their concerns regarding the recent elections.
DanSalami expressed that INEC is largely accountable for the prevailing tension in the country. The commission had promised that the new biometric voter identification technology would enhance the credibility of the elections; however, malfunctions, long delays, and slow results have led to accusations of fraud. He stressed that these issues must be resolved before the March 11 elections to restore faith in the electoral process. Furthermore, he acknowledged the discontent among Nigerians regarding the election outcomes, noting that many citizens, candidates, and political parties have expressed frustration over the conduct of the polls. He affirmed their right to voice grievances, given the high expectations set by the electoral authorities.
Despite these frustrations, DanSalami urged all candidates to discourage their supporters from resorting to violence in response to the election results. He emphasized that political parties, candidates, and their supporters should address their grievances through legal channels. He cautioned against inflammatory statements that could incite violence during this critical period of the country’s transition. Additionally, he called on President Muhammadu Buhari, state governors, election officials, and security personnel to uphold their international commitments and constitutional principles by fostering an environment conducive to free and fair elections. He condemned the violence that has erupted in various parts of the country, labeling it a senseless threat to the integrity of the electoral process.
DanSalami highlighted the significance of the general election, which will impact over 200 million people and resonate throughout the African continent and the Black race. He appealed for unity among Nigerians, urging them not to allow ethnic, religious, or sectional divisions to undermine their collective identity. He encouraged citizens to express their grievances regarding the presidential and National Assembly elections within the framework of the law. The organizations also congratulated President-elect Bola Tinubu, Vice-President-elect Kashim Shettima, and all elected members of the National Assembly, recognizing the 2023 general election as a critical juncture for the nation.
In the lead-up to the elections, DanSalami urged Nigerians to select candidates they trust to govern in their best interests. He noted that the diaspora community has been closely monitoring developments in Nigeria, as they represent a significant demographic that contributes billions of dollars to the economy annually. Many diaspora Nigerians have actively encouraged their families and friends back home to vote, with some even traveling to Nigeria to register and participate in the elections.
While acknowledging that not everyone can win, DanSalami emphasized that the opportunity for participation in the elections is a victory for all Nigerians. He commended the youth for their active engagement in exercising their civic responsibilities without fear. He viewed the election outcome as a collective victory for the nation rather than for any individual or political party, highlighting the importance of presidential democracy in Nigeria after years of military rule. Many Nigerians have fought for this democracy, with some making the ultimate sacrifice.
In conclusion, DanSalami urged the president-elect to form an inclusive government that incorporates the voices of youths and other groups who did not support him. He called for attention to the suffering of the Nigerian populace and the chronic unemployment among the youth. He expressed optimism that the Nigeria of their dreams is achievable and affirmed that Nigerians in the diaspora are ready to contribute to realizing a new Nigeria when called upon.
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