As the Edo State Governorship Election approaches, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has identified electoral offences as a major threat to free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.
INEC’s Head of Legal Department, Mrs. Rita Amadi, emphasized the need for youths to understand electoral laws and penalties to mitigate electoral offences.
Amadi, represented by Mrs. Oba Agbonifo, presented a paper titled “Electoral Offences and Penalties” at a one-day engagement with youth groups in Edo State. She noted that prosecuting electoral offences is a challenging task due to the inefficiency of criminal investigations in Nigeria.
Amadi stressed that ending impunity requires the arrest, prosecution, and sanctioning of offenders. She highlighted that electoral offences can be committed by individuals or groups, and those found liable will be punished according to the law.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, had earlier stated that the commission lacks the power and resources to make arrests and thoroughly investigate electoral offences, despite being empowered by the Electoral Act to prosecute such offences.
Amadi urged political stakeholders to assist INEC in fulfilling its mandate by enlightening their agents and supporters to eschew the “do or die” mentality in the electioneering process. With the September 21, 2024, governorship election approaching, INEC’s warning serves as a reminder of the need for a peaceful and credible electoral process.
