The leadership of the Labour Party (LP) has raised concerns over the actions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding its suspended House of Representatives candidate, Amobi Ogah. According to LP, two INEC lawyers clashed at the appellate court in Lagos, raising doubts about the fairness of the appeal process.
Background
Amobi Ogah was declared the winner of the Isiukwuato Umunneochi Federal Constituency election by INEC on February 28, securing 11,769 votes, as opposed to Nkeiruka Onyejeocha’s 8,752 votes. Onyejeocha now serves as the Minister of State for Labour and Employment. However, a National Assembly Election Petitions Tribunal in Umuahia, Abia State, nullified Ogah’s election on September 6, claiming that he did not comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
Despite Ogah’s argument that Onyejeocha’s acceptance of a ministerial appointment indicated her abandonment of the petition, the tribunal ruled against him.
Labour Party (LP) Clash at the Appellate Court
The drama unfolded on October 19 when two legal practitioners showed up at the Lagos Appeal Court, each wielding a letter of authority to represent INEC. This unexpected turn of events raised suspicions about the motives behind the sudden legal shift within INEC.
The Labour Party (LP) Appeal to INEC
In response to the chaotic proceedings, the leadership of the Labour Party wrote an open letter addressed to INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. In the letter, the LP pleaded with INEC not to scuttle Amobi Ogah’s appeal and to investigate the incident thoroughly. The LP expressed concerns that the change of legal representation within INEC was a deliberate attempt to frustrate their efforts in reclaiming Ogah’s mandate.
LP Calls for Transparency
At a press conference, the National Publicity Secretary of LP, Obiora Ifoh, voiced his concerns about the incident. He revealed that it was shocking to see some expelled LP members, who had joined a rival faction, associating with members of the ruling party at the court. The LP questioned whether the entire episode had been orchestrated to embarrass their candidate.
The LP is calling for an investigation into the actions of INEC’s legal department and demands sanctions for any officials found to be involved in compromising the integrity of the commission.
Conclusion
The Labour Party (LP) accusations against INEC have raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of the appeal process. INEC has been called upon to address these allegations and ensure that justice is served, especially in the aftermath of the controversial 2023 general elections.
The integrity of INEC and the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process are at stake, and it is crucial for the commission to investigate the allegations thoroughly and take appropriate action to maintain public trust.