The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), demanding that they prosecute those involved in bribery and other electoral offences from the 2023 general elections.
In a statement released today, SERAP voiced its concern over what it described as INEC’s failure to comply with a court ruling from July 18, 2024. This ruling had ordered INEC to investigate and prosecute cases of bribery involving state governors and their deputies, alongside other alleged electoral offences.
Justice Obiora Egwuatu’s decision mandated INEC to appoint independent counsel to investigate various electoral crimes—bribery, vote-buying, conspiracy, and undue influence—and to expedite the prosecution of all electoral offenders detained by law enforcement following the 2023 elections.
SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, pointed out that INEC’s inaction threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system and its democracy. He particularly noted the allegations of electoral misconduct in the recent Edo state governorship election.
“Upholding the court’s decision is crucial to safeguarding the credibility of both our electoral and judicial systems,” Oluwadare stated.
SERAP has warned that if INEC does not act within seven days, it will initiate contempt proceedings against both the commission and its chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu. The group stressed that allowing electoral offenders to escape justice perpetuates a culture of impunity.
The ultimatum comes on the heels of reports documenting electoral offences across various states, including the recent governorship election in Edo state, as well as local government elections elsewhere.
By pushing for accountability, SERAP aims to strengthen integrity and fairness in Nigeria’s electoral process.
