National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Ralphs Nwosu, has called on the Prof. Mahmood Yakubu-led Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guard against manipulation of outcome of weekend’s presidential poll.
Nwosu, in a statement, raised the alarm that some self-serving politicians were hell-bent on compromising the result. He said it behoves the political parties and Nigerians, especially the youths, to ensure that the country takes its rightful position in the comity of nations.
Nwosu also urged the electoral body to remain neutral and unbiased in the conduct of the general elections. He said: “The voices that spoke so loudly and clearly cannot be allowed to be drowned by the evil machination of a few, that had put Nigeria in darkness since independence. The unfolding incidents around the many regions are simply unfortunate and near despicable.
“The political shenanigans include the stampede, hijack and destruction of electoral materials in Imo State.
“The youths and majority of our citizens have made so much sacrifice for this day. It behoves INEC and President Muhammadu Buhari to take whatever steps necessary to correct the abnormalities of today in all carry-over elections and uphold integrity of the nation’s electoral process. After 24 years, our democracy should be making steady progress.”
Nwosu continued: “Residents in Rumuonhwa polling unit in Rivers State have cried out over claims made by INEC ad hoc staff that they forgot the presidential ballot papers and so they would only proceed with the National Assembly election. A woman, who was at the polling unit and recorded a video, demanded for INEC to do the right thing and not prevent them from casting their votes for their preferred candidates.
“How can INEC say they forgot the ballot papers when they went to the polling station to conduct the presidential election?
“It is beyond reason that in Lagos, many of the INEC staff refused to upload results for the presidential election. This is as they uploaded the results of Senate and House of Representatives election.
“INEC must provide a clear and immediate explanation why the results were stopped from being uploaded. It was done in Osun and Ekiti, and we set the protocol for this election before all stakeholders. Who is subverting the process?”
“Nigeria cannot be allowed to descend to anarchy. We have come a long way. INEC and the Federal Government should ensure the anomalies are rectified. The people of Nigeria have spoken and they spoke loudly and clearly. INEC must not allow this election to be rigged.”
