The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to comply with a court ruling regarding electoral offences committed during the 2023 general elections. The appeal was made in a statement released on Sunday by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare.
Oluwadare referred to the judgment delivered by Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja on July 18. The ruling followed a mandamus lawsuit filed by SERAP, which sought to compel INEC to investigate and prosecute those responsible for electoral misconduct during the polls.
In the statement, SERAP emphasized the importance of the rule of law and accountability, urging INEC to promptly implement the court’s decision. The organization noted that addressing electoral offences is crucial for ensuring public trust in the electoral process and safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
“Prof. Mahmood Yakubu must respect the judgment of the court and take immediate steps to investigate and prosecute electoral offenders from the 2023 general elections. This will send a clear message that electoral violence, vote-buying, and other misconducts will not be tolerated,” Oluwadare said.
The Federal High Court’s ruling on the mandamus lawsuit obligates INEC to act on reports of electoral offences, which include instances of violence, vote manipulation, and other forms of malpractice that occurred during the election period. SERAP has consistently called for greater accountability in Nigeria’s elections, stressing that failure to address electoral crimes weakens the democratic process and encourages impunity.
Oluwadare added that the enforcement of the court’s decision would also reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to free, fair, and credible elections, while ensuring that electoral offenders are held accountable for their actions.
The 2023 general elections were marked by widespread reports of irregularities, violence, and allegations of vote-buying. Civil society organizations, including SERAP, have been vocal in demanding justice for these offences, pushing INEC and other relevant authorities to take action.
SERAP’s continued advocacy for electoral accountability reflects its broader mission to promote transparency and good governance in Nigeria. As public pressure mounts, the organization has urged INEC to fulfill its responsibility to the electorate by acting in accordance with the court ruling and upholding the integrity of the electoral process.
I dont see what the big deal is. INEC should just follow the court ruling and move on. Why all the drama?
I dont see why SERAP is making such a fuss. INEC should focus on more pressing issues. Priorities, people!
I think SERAP should focus on bigger issues than nitpicking INEC. Lets tackle corruption first!
I think SERAPs demands are justified, but shouldnt we also hold political parties accountable for electoral offenses? It takes two to tango, right?
I dont trust SERAPs motives. Theyre always stirring up trouble. INEC should do whats best for fair elections.
SERAP fights for accountability. INEC should prioritize transparency for truly fair elections.
Why should INEC listen to SERAP? Maybe they should focus on more pressing issues instead. Just a thought 🤷🏻♂️
SERAP holds INEC accountable for transparency and fairness in elections. Their voice matters.
I think SERAP should focus on more pressing issues than nitpicking on INEC. Lets prioritize real ce!
Ensuring fair elections is a crucial step towards real ce. Every issue matters.
I dont see what the big deal is. INEC should just follow the court ruling like everyone else. Why all the drama?
I dont see why SERAP is making such a fuss. INEC should prioritize more pressing issues for the upcoming elections.
Why should INEC comply with a court ruling on electoral offenses? Maybe they have their reasons. Just saying.
Compliance with court rulings is fundamental for upholding the rule of law. No excuses.
I think SERAP should focus on bigger issues than nitpicking at INEC. There are more pressing matters at hand.
I think SERAP should focus on more pressing issues instead of nitpicking INEC. Lets prioritize better!
I think SERAP should focus on more important issues than nitpicking INEC. Lets prioritize real electoral reforms!
Electoral integrity is crucial. SERAPs scrutiny of INEC is valid and necessary for democracy.
Why should INEC be above the law? Lets hold them accountable for fair elections in 2023. Justice must prevail!
I think its crucial for INEC to adhere to court rulings to ensure transparency and accountability in the electoral process.
Why cant INEC just follow the court ruling? Its frustrating how they always try to bend the rules. Accountability is key!
I think its important for INEC to uphold court rulings to ensure fair elections. Democracy relies on following the law.
Should INEC prioritize complying with court rulings over ensuring fair elections? Lets discuss the implications.
I think SERAP has a point, but INEC should also ensure that the ruling is practical and doesnt hinder electoral processes.
I think SERAP has a point here. INEC should follow the court ruling to ensure fair elections in 2023. Accountability is key!
Do you think INEC will actually comply this time, or are we just going to see more empty promises? 🤔