- Prosecute Electoral Offenders – SERAP Tells New INEC Boss
- The group warned that impunity threatens Nigeria’s democratic system.
- It demanded reforms for credible and transparent 2027 elections.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the newly nominated Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to make the prosecution of electoral offenders a top priority.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a statement issued on Sunday by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP urged Amupitan to ensure that politicians and their sponsors involved in electoral offences such as vote-buying, violence, and undue influence during past general and off-cycle elections are held accountable.
The group also advised the new INEC chief to push for amendments to the Electoral Act 2022 to guarantee free, fair, and credible elections in 2027, in line with the Nigerian Constitution and international standards.
SERAP warned that persistent impunity for electoral crimes continues to weaken Nigeria’s democracy and public trust in the electoral process. “Unless the culture of impunity is addressed and perpetrators effectively prosecuted, those contemplating electoral crimes will continue to act freely in future elections,” the organisation stated.
It lamented that despite repeated electoral malpractices since 2015, few offenders have been brought to justice, a situation it said undermines citizens’ right to vote and choose their leaders. SERAP added that a credible election process cannot exist without accountability and enforcement of electoral laws.
The group reminded Amupitan that Sections 121, 127, and 145(2) of the Electoral Act empower INEC to prosecute electoral offences through its legal officers or appointed practitioners.
SERAP also cited the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance, which urges African states to prevent rigging, bribery, and fraud in elections.
The organisation concluded by warning that if Amupitan fails to act upon confirmation, it will consider legal steps to compel INEC to comply in the public interest.
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