From Tony Osauzo, Benin
The Catalyst Committee, a group within the Labour Party in Edo State, has called upon the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Judiciary to uphold the rule of law and the Electoral Act of 2022, resisting any political pressure.
This call comes in response to the legal case filed by Kenneth Imansuangbon against the candidacy of Olumide Akpata for the Edo State governorship election. The Catalyst Committee expressed concerns that some powerful individuals are attempting to influence the outcome of the case, preventing justice from being served and undermining the will of the people.
The group emphasized that upholding the rule of law in this case is crucial for deepening democracy in Nigeria. They warned that any attempt by INEC to deviate from the established guidelines and the Electoral Act would lead to chaos and erode public trust in the electoral process.
“INEC should know that Olumide Akpata is not the only one in the contest but there are other 16 gubernatorial aspirants in the contest,” the statement read. “Therefore, INEC and the judiciary cannot afford to be seen shifting the goal post in violation of the clear guideline and rule of law.”
The Catalyst Committee highlighted the importance of adhering to the rule of law, stating that failure to do so would be grounds for disqualification. They commended Imansuangbon for taking legal action to ensure fairness and transparency in the electoral process.
“Whoever disobeys the law, the consequences are there and it should be applied,” the statement continued. “That is why Kenneth Imansuangbon has gone to court to rescue the party.”
The group urged INEC to seize this opportunity to rebuild public trust by upholding the rule of law and ensuring a fair and transparent electoral process. They emphasized that the eyes of the public are on the Judiciary and INEC, and their actions will have a significant impact on the future of democracy in Edo State and Nigeria.