The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to resist any political interference in the recall petition against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The organisation described the move to recall the Kogi Central Senator as a politically motivated by All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi state.
Executive Director, CHRICED, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, in a statement on Friday, raised concerns about the involvement of the INEC which he said seems to have yielded to political pressures from those orchestrating the recall initiative.
Zikirullahi urged the electoral body to remember its constitutional obligation to maintain impartiality, uphold democratic values, and resist being manipulated as a tool for political victimization.
According to CHRICED, the sudden push to remove Natasha is not just about her, but part of a larger plan to sustain APC’s grip on power in Kogi Central.
Zikirullahi alleged that there are plans to politically silence Natasha permanently through orchestrated recall.
He said, “At CHRICED, we find it essential to present the facts clearly to avoid misleading those who may not discern the truth.
“CHRICED is also aware, as widely reported, that many constituents of Senator Natasha were deceived into signing the recall petition under the false impression that they were signing empowerment initiative launched by the Kogi State Government.
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“Considering this situation, we strongly calls on the relevant government agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into this misleading action and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their conduct. It is imperative that such deceptive practices are addressed to maintain the integrity of the democratic process and protect the interests of the constituents.
“We strongly urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prioritize democratic principles and the Rule of Law by promptly conducting a comprehensive review of the recall petition.
“Should any discrepancies, fraudulent signatures, or procedural irregularities be identified during this assessment, it is imperative that INEC withdraws the recall notice.
“If the recall process continues, it is vital that INEC carries it out with the utmost neutrality, professionalism, and transparency, while ensuring close monitoring by civil society organizations and the media.
“Additionally, INEC must acknowledge that its activities, including this recall process, are financed by taxpayer funds. Any misuse of public resources for politically motivated purposes not only jeopardizes the interests of the Nigerian people but also contravenes the fundamental principles of democratic governance.”
