2023 Poll: Pro-democracy group hails INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission, has been applauded for the successful conduct of the 2023 general elections.

A pro-democracy group, Citizens for Development (C4D), which gave the commendation in a statement issued last night, said the Prof Mahmood Yakubu-led electoral commission was diligent in their responsibilities.

The Chairman of the group, Ngozi Ndukwe, noted that INEC was able to promptly respond to areas where there were challenges

“While we acknowledge some issues with logistics, especially the movement of electoral officials and materials to some hard-to-reach areas, we commend INEC for rising to the occasion.

“Reports from our field agents and the citizens showed that the election witnessed minimal delays and interruptions compared to previous elections in the country. In more than 95% of polling units, the election was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere devoid of intimidation, violence and rigging,” she said.

She, however, noted that unscrupulous politicians, who were desperate to win election at all cost, made efforts to truncate the process in some of the states. She praised INECofficials who refused to be compromised.

“We commend Prof Yakubu, who have demonstrated a high level of integrity, which cascaded to officials on the field as they refused to be compromised by unscrupulous politicians. We strongly commend the INEC boss for instilling patriotism and integrity in the staff of the commission,” she said.

She said the successful conduct of the 2023 general elections and declaration of winners have put to shame doomsday prophecies, which she noted created an atmosphere of fear in the build up to the poll.

“We congratulate Prof Mahmood Yakubu for supervising the most fair and credible election in the history of Nigeria. Indeed, history will be kind to him,” she said.

Ndukwe encouraged Nigerians to support the government by holding those elected accountable.