Group urges INEC to remove Wike’s cousin as Edo State Electoral Commissioner

The Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remove Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo State, before the upcoming gubernatorial election.

In a letter addressed to INEC Chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, the group expressed concerns over Onuoha’s close ties to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, citing a conflict of interest.

The letter, signed by the group’s country director, John Mayaki, was prompted by Wike’s recent TV interview, where he confirmed that Onuoha is his first cousin and has been the Edo REC for over a year.

Wike’s comments, including his statement, “You are meeting a rock (Onuoha),” have raised alarm within the group about the potential politicization of the electoral process.

READ ALSO: Edo 2024: INEC extends PVC collection deadline ahead of September 21 election

According to the group, Onuoha’s political affiliations and history of supporting Wike in partisan activities undermine the impartiality of INEC.

They argue that his position as REC could threaten the credibility of the election, risking a loss of trust in the democratic process.

The coalition has urged INEC to replace Onuoha with a neutral figure to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and avoid triggering chaos.

The letter warns that failure to act could lead to a crisis of confidence, both within Edo State and across the nation, as stakeholders seek a free and fair election.

The group emphasized that the decision is crucial to maintaining public trust and safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.