The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) demand to redeploy the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Edo State, Anugbum Onuoha. The PDP had raised concerns about Onuoha’s relationship with Minister Nyesom Wike, citing fears of bias in the upcoming governorship election.
INEC’s Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, stated that the REC would not be redeployed, emphasizing that the election’s outcome would be determined by the voting process, not the REC’s office. Oyekanmi urged the PDP to focus on the election process rather than Onuoha.
The PDP had submitted a formal protest letter to INEC, highlighting Onuoha’s close ties with Wike, including their familial relationship and past working connections. However, INEC remains unmoved, insisting that the election will be conducted fairly and transparently.
Key Points:
- INEC rejects PDP’s demand to redeploy Edo REC Anugbum Onuoha
- PDP cites concerns about Onuoha’s relationship with Minister Nyesom Wike
- INEC emphasizes that the election’s outcome will be determined by the voting process
- PDP urged to focus on the election process rather than Onuoha
Context:
This development highlights the tensions and suspicions surrounding Nigeria’s electoral process. The PDP’s concerns about Onuoha’s potential bias reflect broader fears about the influence of political connections on election outcomes. INEC’s stance underscores the need for transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
