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Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), INEC-accredited observers, and indigenous people of Kogi State have raised concerns over what they describe as a campaign of blackmail and “propaganda taken too far” by the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and its candidate, Muritala Ajaka, following the November 11, 2023, Kogi governorship election.
In a joint press conference held in Abuja on Monday, the groups condemned the alleged attacks by the SDP on critical institutions like the Judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). They argued that the continuous attacks without substantial evidence undermine Nigeria’s democracy and the rule of law, urging security agencies to investigate those behind such actions.
The Coalition of CSOs, INEC-accredited observers, and the Kogi Indigenous People Initiative expressed concern over the SDP’s alleged attempts to pressure the Judiciary, despite ongoing court processes. They emphasized that court cases should be resolved with facts and evidence rather than through what they termed as “propaganda, intimidation, and name-dropping.”
Ohalete Wisdom Kelechi, National Coordinator of the Coalition of Civil Society of Nigeria, highlighted the importance of protecting the integrity of INEC and the Judiciary from political bias. He stated, “When the electoral body and the judiciary come under fierce attacks, coordinated propaganda, and mindless blackmail, the pillar of democracy hangs in the balance, and good governance will take a back seat.”
Mr. Emmanuel Oluwasegun, speaking on behalf of some INEC-accredited observers, commended INEC for conducting what he described as the freest and fairest election in Kogi State’s history. He noted that while the SDP performed well in some areas, it did poorly in others, leading to frustration among its leaders.
Oluwasegun remarked, “It is important to note that there was an election which was credible in all its ramifications. The APC utilized its popularity in the state to mobilize support, winning overwhelmingly in key districts, resulting in a significant vote difference.”
Dr. Oguche Benjamin, leader of the Indigenous People of Kogi State, accused the SDP of fostering ethnic divisions and violence in Kogi East LGA. He condemned the alleged harassment of APC members and called on the SDP to focus on constructive politics rather than resorting to hate and propaganda.
The groups concluded by advising the SDP candidate, Muritala Ajaka, to adopt a more positive approach if he intends to contest future elections, asserting that “the law is blind to sentiments or hooliganism” and only recognizes facts and evidence.
