The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA), alongside 13 affiliated organizations, has voiced concerns regarding the integrity of the upcoming Edo State governorship election, set for September 21, 2024.
Their primary concern is the refusal of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to redeploy Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mr. Anugbum Onuoha, who they claim has close ties to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike.
HURIWA argues that Onuoha’s relationship with Wike, a high-ranking figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), could jeopardize the impartiality of the election process.
Opposition parties, especially the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have called for Onuoha’s redeployment, citing his past service under Wike during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State as a conflict of interest.
In a press briefing on September 18, 2024, HURIWA and its coalition partners expressed their fears that Onuoha’s continued role as REC could lead to bias in the election, undermining the credibility of INEC.
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“INEC’s decision to retain Mr. Onuoha raises serious questions about the commission’s commitment to a fair and transparent election,” HURIWA warned, adding that the Nigerian public deserves an election free from undue influence.
HURIWA also raised alarms about the Edo State Commissioner of Police, alleging that he has demonstrated partiality towards the APC.
The association pointed to incidents of biased policing and unjust arrests targeting PDP leaders as evidence of an orchestrated effort to weaken the opposition ahead of the election.
to HURIWA, these actions contribute to an environment of fear, intimidation, and uncertainty.
Given these concerns, HURIWA called on the National Security Adviser (NSA) to intervene by overseeing security operations for the election.
The association believes that the NSA, as a neutral figure, can ensure that law enforcement remains impartial throughout the electoral process. “We urge the NSA to take control of security to prevent any manipulation or undue influence,” HURIWA stated.
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Additionally, HURIWA appealed to the international community, asking diplomatic missions such as the United States, the European Union, and the United Kingdom to monitor the election closely.
They also urged the U.S. and U.K. governments to impose visa bans on any individuals found guilty of attempting to compromise the electoral process. “International pressure is crucial in upholding democratic principles and ensuring accountability,” the group emphasized.
HURIWA’s concerns come at a critical time, with the future of Edo State’s governance hanging in the balance. The organization stressed that the 2024 election must be conducted transparently to ensure that the will of the people prevails.