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Edo Election: ActionAid Nigeria Calls for Prosecution of those involved in Electoral Fraud
Edo Election: ActionAid Nigeria Calls for Prosecution of those involved in Electoral Fraud
By: Michael Mike
ActionAid Nigeria has called for the prosecution of those that were involved in electoral fraud in the just concluded gubernatorial election in Edo State
A statement on Thursday by the NGO Country Director, Andrew Mamedu, said:
“it is important that those responsible for undermining the will of the people are held accountable. The government must be unequivocally reminded that its foremost duty is to serve the interests of the citizens, not to facilitate or condone actions that silence their voices.”
Mamedu said: “For over 15 years, ActionAid Nigeria has been consistent in her work around electoral processes in Nigeria including observing elections in the 36 states and FCT, although not physically present to observe the just concluded Edo State governorship election, we stand firmly in solidarity with our fellow Civil Society organisations and partners who have reported significant irregularities throughout the electoral process. This election has been marred by serious allegations of manipulation and rigging, as thoroughly documented by multiple civil society groups within the state. Disturbing accounts of disruptions at collation centers, including intimidation of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and attempts to manipulate results contrary to established electoral provisions, have raised profound concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
“We recognise that INEC has acknowledged reports of result tampering and has pledged to investigate any proven violations but their track record in conducting free, fair, and transparent elections has been severely undermined by persistent accusations of inefficiency, manipulation, and undue political influence. While the investigation is a step in the right direction, it is important that these investigations translate into swift and effective action.
“Also, beyond the investigation, it is important that those responsible for undermining the will of the people are held accountable.”
He added that: “The time has also come to critically reassess INEC’s role in our electoral system. When an institution entrusted with safeguarding democracy continuously falters, we must explore alternatives. Nigerians deserve an electoral body that is genuinely independent, transparent, and accountable. There is a need to reform INEC as a commission in order to make it more efficient, effective and accountable in carrying out its mandate as an electoral umpire.”
Mamedu said: “A comprehensive electoral reform in Nigeria is urgently needed. First, there must be a complete overhaul of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to create a more transparent, accountable, and independent body, free from political influence and led by individuals of proven integrity.”
He called for more roles for civil society organisations and international observers in Nigeria’s electoral process, stating that: “Civil society organisations and international observers should play a more significant role in observing elections, ensuring that their recommendations are taken seriously, with mechanisms in place for swift action against misconduct.”
He added that: “The adoption of more robust electoral technologies, such as biometric voting systems and real-time result transmission, is crucial to minimizing fraud.
“Security personnel must also be deployed impartially to prevent violence and intimidation, ensuring that party agents, the media, and observers have full access to maintain electoral integrity. It is essential to incorporate technologies like the BVAs and IREV into the Electoral Act.
“The judiciary must uphold its role as the guardian of democracy, prioritising electoral cases with swift, evidence-based verdicts. Any officials found complicit in electoral fraud must be held accountable, necessitating comprehensive reforms in the judicial sector to ensure just outcomes.”
Edo Election: ActionAid Nigeria Calls for Prosecution of those involved in Electoral Fraud
SSG, Senator Shehu, led Borno government delegation to Eid, Durbar
By: Our Reporter
The Secretary to Borno State Government (SSG), Hon. Bukar Tijjani, and the Senator representing Borno Central, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, led a government delegation to observe the two raka’at Eid prayers at Ramat Square Eid ground.
This was in accordance with the directive of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, who is currently in Mecca for a spiritual exercise.
The Deputy Governor, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur was unable to attend as he is in mourning following the passing of his elder brother, Mai Aliyu Usman Kadafur, in Biu town.
The Eid prayer marks the conclusion of the sacred month of Ramadan, a period dedicated to spiritual blessings and devotion.
Accompanying the SSG and the senator were former deputy governor, Hon Usman Mamman Ndurkwa, the State Head of Service, Dr Muhammad Aminu Ghuluze, commissioners, special advisers, heads of government agencies, stalwarts of the All Progressives Congress (APC), heads of security agencies, and members of the business community.
His Royal Highness, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin Elkanemi, also led members of Borno Emirate Council to attend the prayers.
In a sermon shortly after the prayers, the Imam Idaini of Borno, Imam Shettima Mamman Saleh, urged Muslim faithful to apply the lessons learned during the Ramadan fast to foster harmonious relationships and peaceful coexistence among diverse groups across the country.
He further described Eid al-Fitr as a period of self-reflection and reassessment of the values inculcated during the holy month.
The Imam encouraged Muslims to give alms to the needy, known as Zakatul Fitr, and to observe six days of fasting in the month of Shawwal to earn Allah’s blessings and rewards.
Delivering the governor’s message shortly after the eid prayers at the Government House, Hon. Bukar Tijjani expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for witnessing a hitch free sallah celebration.
He called on people of the state to continue to support Zulum’s administration, stressing the need for a peaceful and harmonious relationship.
In a remark, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan said the governor is in Saudi Arabia to offer special prayers for peace and prosperity to continue to reign in the state and the country at large.
He extended Governor Zulum’s Sallah message, who directed them to take part in all activities lined up for the eid celebration.
The delegation later proceeded to the Shehu of Borno’s palace, where the royal father staged a durbar, displaying the rich cultural heritage of the people of Borno and a sign that peace has returned to the state
In a message, Shehu Abubakar Garbai Elkanemi lauded governor Zulum for his relentless effort towards the restoration of peace in the state.
He commended the federal government for the reconstruction and expansion of the Alau dam and called for prayers to avert the reoccurrence of last year’s flood disaster and for restoration of sustainable peace in the state.
SSG, Senator Shehu, led Borno government delegation to Eid, Durbar
Eid Mubarak: Tuggar Asks Nigerians to Embrace Peace, Compassion, Unity
By: Michael Mike
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has asked Nigerians to embrace the values of peace, compassion, and unity that the of Eid al-Fitr festival, which marks the end of the month of Ramadan, represents.
The Minister, in his message to commemorate the festival, said: “On this joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, I extend my warmest greetings to all Nigerians, both at home and abroad. As we mark the completion of the holy month of Ramadan, let us embrace the values of peace, compassion, and unity that this sacred period represents.
“Eid is a time of gratitude and reflection, a moment to strengthen our bonds as a nation and reaffirm our commitment to love, kindness, and generosity toward one another. It is also an opportunity to pray for continued progress, stability, and prosperity in our beloved country.
“To our fellow Nigerians living abroad, we recognize your contributions to our nation’s development and appreciate your role in fostering the good image of Nigeria globally. May this Eid bring you renewed hope, joy, and a deeper connection to home.
“As we celebrate, let us also remember those facing hardship and conflict, both within and beyond our borders. In the spirit of Eid, let us extend our prayers and support to those in need, reaffirming our collective resolve for peace and harmony worldwide.
“On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, I wish you all a blessed and peaceful Eid. May this celebration usher in a period of renewed strength, prosperity, and unity for our great nation.”
Eid Mubarak: Tuggar Asks Nigerians to Embrace Peace, Compassion, Unity
Gunman Attacks Hisba Officials in Katsina, Five Injured
By: Zagazola Makama
The Katsina State Police Command has arrested Alhaji Surajo Mai Asharalle and three others for allegedly attacking Hisba officials and causing severe injuries during a late-night enforcement operation at Kofar Kaura Quarters, Katsina.
According to sources from the CPS Katsina, the Operations Officer of the Katsina State Hisba Board, Nafi’u Aliyu Akilu, reported that at about 2:30 a.m. on March 29, Hisba officials were dispatched to stop a group of youths playing football near a mosque where Tahajjud (night prayers) were ongoing.
However, upon arrival, the youths resisted and chased the Hisba officials away. During the confrontation, Alhaji Surajo Mai Asharalle allegedly fired multiple shots from a locally made cut-to-size gun, injuring five Hisba officials: Aminu Musa Yari, Muhammad Ibrahim, Yau Musa Ingawa, Kabir Abdullahi and Mustapha Isa
In addition, a Peugeot 206 (blue) and a Mercedes C180, which were parked at the scene, were severely damaged.
Police later mobilized to the scene, arrested the suspect and three accomplices, and recovered the firearm used in the attack.
The injured victims were rushed to General Hospital Katsina and later referred to Federal Teaching Hospital (FTH) Katsina for further treatment.
Gunman Attacks Hisba Officials in Katsina, Five Injured
SSG, Senator Shehu, led Borno government delegation to Eid, Durbar
Eid Mubarak: Tuggar Asks Nigerians to Embrace Peace, Compassion, Unity
Gunman Attacks Hisba Officials in Katsina, Five Injured
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