- Says judgement completely disregarding fundamental principles, integrity of electoral system
From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Protests have continued to rock Lafia, Nasarawa State capital as the PDP Concern Group Nasarawa State expressed disappointment and concern over the recent judgment delivered by the Appeal Court, which upturned the PDP gubernatorial victory from the lower tribunal and gave it to the APC based on technical grounds rather than the merit of the case.
In a press statement delivered by the conveiner, Comrade Adamu Davidson Henry on Tuesday at the state PDP secretariat, Jos Road, Lafia shortly after it’s road walk protest, believed that the judgment falls short of real democratic principles that govern the nation, especially the principle of majority rule.
“It is disheartening to witness a decision that seems to shield the insincerity of INEC to prove their irregularities, thereby questioning the credibility of our electoral processes.”
Adamu highlighted specific instances of irregularities that were overlooked by the tribunal under the guise of technicalities, noting that In Gayam ward of Lafia Local Government Area, the total number of accredited voters was recorded as 13,000, while an astonishing 33,000 votes were given to the APC alone.
He further noted that in Chiroma ward, the number of accredited voters was documented as 21,000, but INEC announced a staggering 59,000 votes solely for the APC. “These discrepancies, among others, were conveniently shielded by the tribunal, completely disregarding the fundamental principles and integrity of our electoral system.”
“We firmly believe that it is the responsibility of our judiciary to uphold the principles of justice, fairness, and merit in all its judgments. In this particular case, the lack of a thorough investigation into the glaring irregularities is an affront to these principles and undermines the trust of the people in our justice system.”
“It is therefore essential that the judiciary, as a pillar of democracy, does not inadvertently provide a platform for the perpetration of electoral injustice.”
The PDP Concern Group Nasarawa State called on the competent authorities, particularly the Supreme Court, to thoroughly scrutinise this matter and rectify the injustices that have been committed, adding that they trust in the integrity of the judiciary and its commitment to upholding the ideals of democracy in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the group urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take these grievances seriously and ensure that there is no room for irregularities and manipulation in future elections.
“The true essence of democracy lies in the ability of citizens to participate in free and fair elections, and it is the duty of INEC to safeguard this right.”
He said the group will remain committed to the pursuit of justice and fairness, and will continue to work towards ensuring that the will of the people prevails, not only in Nasarawa State but across the country.