Politics
EU, AU, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Election Mission Ask Political Parties to Seek Legal Redress If They Are Not Satisfy With Electoral Process

EU, AU, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Election Mission Ask Political Parties to Seek Legal Redress If They Are Not Satisfy With Electoral Process
By: Michael Mike
The European Union, African Union, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Missions to the 2023 Nigeria’s Election have asked any of the presidential candidate or political party that is not satisfied with the electoral process to seek legal redress.
Presenting their preliminary reports on the Presidential/National Assembly Elections, the European Union, African Union, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Missions to the 2023 Nigeria’s Election, while admitting that the election was better than past elections, but asked candidates and their parties to seek legal redress as provider under Nigeria’s law if they are aggrieved.
The Chairperson of the Commonwealth Observer Group, former President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, while delivering his team’s preliminary assessment of the electoral process at a press conference in Abuja, noted that the Nigeria’s 2023 general elections were “largely peaceful” despite administrative and logistical hurdles at many polling units.
He said: “Nigerians were largely accorded the right to vote,” adding that: “We congratulate all Nigerians for their determination, patience and resilience displayed throughout the electoral process.”
He said as Nigeria waits for the final results, he appealed to all citizens to exercise patience to allow the country’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its staff to conclude the results process peacefully.
Mbeki said: “We call on all those with grievances to address disputes through prescribed legal channels,” insisting that: “The time now is for restraint and continued patience as we await the final results.”
He commended the commitment shown by voters, despite the late arrival of election officials and materials at many polling units, technical issues with biometric identification machines in some cases, and delays with the live results transmission system.
Mbeki also praised the polling officials for conducting their duties diligently, while noting some inconsistencies in procedures, particularly in the positioning of some polling booths which compromised the secrecy of the ballot as well as lack of advance voting for those deployed on election day.
He expressed that as voting hours extended into the night due to late openings, some polling units were ill-equipped with proper lighting to facilitate voting and counting in the dark.
However considering the challenges, he encouraged the electoral commission to conduct a thorough post-election review of the electoral process to draw lessons and consider setting up appropriate mechanisms to implement the recommendations of observers.
He also noted an improvement with the enactment of a new Electoral Act in 2022, which gave the electoral commission more autonomy, legal backing for the use of electronic accreditation of voters and frameworks for the inclusion of people with disabilities in the elections, among other things.
He noted the low percentage of women candidates, but however said the group was impressed by the “vibrant participation” of young people, including as polling officials, in the elections.
He noted that Commonwealth observers were in Benue, Edo, Kano, Lagos, Ondo, Rivers and Sokoto states as well as the Federal Capital Territory.
The European Union Observer Mission, on its part, urged Nigerians to rely on the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC) for results of the presidential and National Assembly polls, insisting that the social media is not a credible source.
EU gave this advice on Monday, while delivery its preliminary report on the election.
According to Barry Andrew, EU Chief Observer and Head of EU EOM, “Social media was actively used by political actors as a campaign tool. However, the platforms were misused to spread harmful content, including disinformation on key electoral processes; the measures the
platforms took to protect electoral integrity were insufficient.
“Misleading information also came from
political actors and contributed to a blurred information environment for voters.”
He however commended the media and the Civil Society Organisation for joining forces to fact check.
He said, “Online and offline media joined forces with civil society and fact checkers to safeguard the integrity of the preelection information environment. Realtime fact checking of gubernatorial and other contestants’debates strived to hold candidates accountable, while various formats of voter information, raised voter awareness and helped to counter electoral insecurity, complementing INEC efforts.”
The EU Preliminary report presented by Andrew, observed that the electoral process lacked transparency, it also showed that the process operational failures, which reduced trust in the process.
EU also said despite the confidence reposed in INEC by stakeholders, the electoral body’s lack of efficient planning in critical stages and effective public communication reduced trust in the process, including on election day.
Andrew said, “On 25 February, Nigerians went to the polls in highly anticipated presidential and National Assembly
elections that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) kept on schedule despite a volatile
and challenging environment.
“Fundamental freedoms of assembly and movement were largely respected, yet the full enjoyment of the latter was impeded by insufficient planning, insecurity and the prevailing Naira and fuel shortages.
“Abuse of incumbency by various political office holders distorted the playing
field and there were widespread allegations of vote buying.
“The EU EOM is continuing its observation of the ongoing collation and tabulation of
results throughout the country.
“INEC’s operational capacity was hampered by the ongoing fuel and Naira shortage. Insecurity prevented
it from accessing some Local Government Areas (LGAs), notably in the South. Attacks on INEC premises, including just days before polling, hindered preparations in affected areas, while instilling fear in voters.
“Overall, stakeholders had expressed confidence in INEC’s independence, professionalism, and voter
information efforts, but this decreased ahead of elections.
“INEC lacked efficient planning and transparency during critical stages of the electoral process, while on election day trust in INEC was seen to further
reduce due to delayed polling processes and information gaps related to much anticipated access to results
on its Results Viewing Portal (IReV).
“In the lead-up to elections, the widely welcomed Electoral Act 2022 introduced measures aimed at building stakeholder trust, however leaving some important gaps in terms of accountability and INEC’s power to enforce the law.
“Weak points include a lack of INEC empowerment to enforce sanctions for
electoral offences and breaches of campaign finance rules. Positively, INEC benefited from more timely
financingthan for previous contests. Other new provisions also aimed to enhance transparency of results.
“The introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the IReV for the 2023 elections was perceived as an important step to ensure the integrity and credibility of elections.
“However, delayed training of technical personnel, an inadequate mock testing exercise, and a lack of public information on the election technologies diminished expectations and left room for speculation and uncertainty.
“During the early stages of collation, presidential result forms from polling units were not displayed on the
IReV, while Senate and House of Representative results were slowly published.
“Presidential election result
forms started to be uploaded after 10 pm on election day, raising concerns.
On her part, EU Parliament Head of Delegation, Ms. Evin Incir expressed concern that less than 10 percent of candidates were women.
Incir therefore urged the next government and Parliament to look into the manifestos of the main political parties to include affirmative action, such as quotas.
2023 Elections: AU, ECOWAS Observers task INEC on credible conclusions.
Meanwhile, the African Union (AU), and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Observation Missions deployed to the Nigerian general elections wants the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to improve on the encountrered challenges for credible conclusions of the electoral process.
The Head of African Union Observation Mission and Former President of Kenya, Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta , together with Leader of the ECOWAS Observer Mission and Former President of Sierra Leone, Ernest Bi Koroma, made the call in Abuja during a joint preliminary briefing on the elections.
The head of the observation missions urged Nigerians to remain calm until the announcement of the final result from INEC, cautioning against disinformation and fake news especially on social media platforms that would incite post-election violence.
Responding to questions from journalists, Mr. Koroma said the AU and EU Observation Missions is urging INEC to improve on its communications strategies to avoid any form of speculations, disinformation and fake news.
The Leader of the ECOWAS delegation said that beyond Observation Mission, it was in Nigeria alongside the AU Mission on a diplomacy engagement to ensure a peaceful transition.
The Head of AU Observation Mission, Mr. Uhuru Kenyatta while also also fielding questions from journalists urged INEC to adress all challenges encountered so that the process can be brought to a credible and peaceful conclusion.
President of the ECOWAS Commission, Omar Touray appreciated the AU and ECOWAS Observation Missions who came on the invitation of the ECOWAS Commissions for delivering on their mandate.
He also thanked the Media for the good coverage of the elections especially at a time where fake news have dominated the media space.
Touray said that “ECOWAS will indeed follow results closely and continue to reach out to all stakeholders within the framework of preventive diplomacy.”
EU, AU, Commonwealth, ECOWAS Election Mission Ask Political Parties to Seek Legal Redress If They Are Not Satisfy With Electoral Process
Politics
VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes

VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s political trajectory exemplifies the intricate relationship between fate and personal attributes, highlighting how individual qualities can intersect with circumstantial forces to shape leadership outcomes. While fate may position an individual within certain historical or social contexts, it is Shettima’s personal attributes—such as resilience, rhetorical skill, and strategic vision—that have enabled him to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape effectively. His public discourse often underscores courage and transformative leadership, which not only reflect his innate qualities but also respond adaptively to the demands of his environment.
Shettima’s role as vice president underlines a dynamic interplay where destiny provides opportunities that are actualized through character and action. His rhetoric aligns with broader national narratives about change and legacy, suggesting that while fate may offer a stage, it is personal agency that directs the performance. This synthesis between predetermined circumstances and individual capability illustrates how leaders like Shettima embody both historical contingency and self-determination in their public roles.
In this way, Shettima’s journey not only reflects personal triumph over the vicissitudes of fate but also serves as a testament to the profound impact of character-driven leadership on national development. In essence, Shettima’s leadership journey illustrates how the interplay between fate and personal attributes can transcend individual success to foster collective progress within a nation. This intricate balance between destiny and personal attributes not only shapes Shettima’s political narrative but also inspires a broader discourse on leadership in Africa, where history and individual agency frequently converge to redefine societal trajectories.
This narrative not only resonates deeply within the context of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape but also offers a blueprint for emerging leaders across the continent, reinforcing the idea that true progress is born from the synergy between predetermined paths and deliberate, character-driven choices. By examining Shettima’s career, one can discern how his personal attributes—resilience, strategic foresight, and an unwavering commitment to public service—have consistently aligned with historical moments of opportunity.
Read ALSO: https://newsng.ng/the-plight-of-farida/
This alignment is further evidenced by Shettima’s strategic initiatives, which often capitalize on pivotal historical junctures to advance national interests and enhance socio-economic stability. Shettima’s ability to navigate complex political landscapes with a blend of prudence and vision underscores the essential role of adaptive leadership in times of national transformation. His journey illustrates how personal characteristics can serve as both a catalyst and a compass, guiding individuals through the intricate dance of destiny and determination to achieve impactful leadership outcomes.
As Shettima’s narrative unfolds, it becomes evident that his personal journey is a testament to how intrinsic qualities can steer one towards pivotal roles in shaping a nation’s trajectory. In reflecting on Shettima’s career, one observes how his intrinsic resilience and strategic foresight have intertwined with the broader currents of fate to place him at the forefront of national leadership. This interplay between personal attributes and destiny not only underscores Shettima’s rise but also highlights the broader narrative of leadership in contexts marked by complexity and change.
This dynamic interaction between individual traits and the unfolding of fate is not only critical in understanding Shettima’s ascent but also serves as a broader commentary on leadership within complex political environments. Shettima’s leadership journey, as articulated in his rhetoric, underscores the transformative power of individual courage and strategic vision in navigating the complexities of national governance. Moreover, his rhetoric often reflects the deep-seated belief that courage and strategic vision are indispensable in crafting a legacy that resonates with both contemporary and future generations.
Kashim Shettima’s speeches often encapsulate the notion that leadership is not merely a position of power but a profound responsibility to align personal strengths with the nation’s aspirations, ultimately crafting a narrative that resonates with both the present and posterity. Through his speeches, Shettima consistently emphasizes the importance of aligning personal integrity with national goals, thereby reinforcing the notion that effective leadership is deeply rooted in a harmonious blend of fate and personal conviction. In doing so, he not only embodies the essence of leadership but also illustrates how personal conviction can be a guiding force in the intricate dance between destiny and self-determination. This intricate interplay between personal determination and the larger forces of destiny is vividly captured in Shettima’s portrayal of President Tinubu’s leadership, where bold economic reforms are seen as pivotal moments that redefine national identity.
Shettima’s depiction of Tinubu’s leadership serves as a testament to the belief that the convergence of personal attributes and fate can indeed propel a nation towards a redefined future, where courageous decisions become the cornerstone of historical transformation. Shettima’s perspective underscores the belief that the fusion of personal attributes such as courage and strategic foresight with the inexorable pull of fate can lead to transformative change. By weaving his narrative with elements of courage and strategic foresight, Shettima not only highlights the transformative potential inherent in the convergence of personal attributes and fate but also inspires a collective vision for progress that transcends individual ambitions.
Indeed, Shettima’s narrative finds resonance in the broader context of leadership, where the alignment of individual virtues with the nation’s destiny becomes a catalyst for enduring change. In essence, Shettima’s articulation of Tinubu’s leadership is not merely a reflection of personal admiration but rather an acknowledgment of the profound impact that decisive leadership can have on the trajectory of a nation.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
VP Kashim Shettima: A reflection of the interconnectedness between fate and personal attributes
Politics
Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership

Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership
By: Dr. James Bwala
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s rhetoric surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s leadership underscores a narrative of courage and historical significance. Shettima consistently portrays Tinubu as a bold and decisive leader who confronts Nigeria’s most pressing challenges head-on, particularly in economic reforms like the removal of fuel subsidies and exchange rate realignment. He constantly emphasized that Tinubu is “taking the bullets” avoided by his predecessors; Shettima situates the president as a transformative figure whose decisions are not merely administrative but foundational acts shaping Nigeria’s future governance.
Shettima’s discourse highlights the interplay between courage and legacy. He suggests that Tinubu’s willingness to make unpopular yet necessary choices reflects a leadership style committed to long-term national benefit rather than short-term approval. This framing aligns with academic understandings of political rhetoric that seek to legitimize authority through appeals to sacrifice and historical destiny. In this light, Shettima positions Tinubu not only as a current leader but as an architect of history whose actions will ease burdens for future administrations.

Vice President Kashim Shettima often employs rhetoric that celebrates President Tinubu’s courage while emphasizing his role in shaping Nigerian history. By framing difficult policy decisions as acts of bravery and rewriting past leadership failures, Shettima constructs a compelling narrative that elevates Tinubu’s presidency within the nation’s political discourse. This rhetorical strategy serves both to defend contentious reforms and inspire confidence in ongoing governmental efforts toward sustainable development. Such rhetoric not only bolsters Tinubu’s image as a valiant leader but also sets the stage for a narrative where current sacrifices are deemed necessary investments for the nation’s prosperous future.
This narrative not only fortifies Tinubu’s legacy but also seeks to galvanize public support for current and future reforms by framing them as essential steps toward a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria. By portraying Tinubu as a leader who tackles challenges head-on, Shettima not only seeks to enhance public trust but also attempts to foster a collective sense of purpose and resilience among Nigerians.

Framing Tinubu’s leadership as a courageous endeavor that confronts and overcomes obstacles head-on, Shettima not only reinforces a narrative of resilience but also positions Nigeria on a trajectory toward transformative growth and stability. This portrayal of Tinubu as a transformative figure is further reinforced by Shettima’s framing of his leadership decisions as not merely necessary responses to immediate crises but as strategic moves designed to secure Nigeria’s long-term prosperity and stability. Drawing on the historical context and illustrating Tinubu’s actions as pivotal moments of courage, Shettima underscores the idea that these strategic choices are not just about immediate gains but about crafting a legacy that future generations will look back on with respect and gratitude.
In this light, Shettima’s rhetoric not only elevates Tinubu’s actions as emblematic of courageous leadership but also aims to cement his legacy as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s history. While emphasizing these transformative policies, Shettima not only paints a picture of Tinubu’s bravery in addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues but also frames these actions as essential steps in the nation’s journey towards sustainable development. His rhetoric consistently underscores the notion that Tinubu’s leadership is not only about immediate gains but also about ensuring a more resilient and prosperous future for Nigeria.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s rhetoric underscores this vision, portraying President Tinubu as a leader who is unafraid to confront the nation’s most pressing challenges head-on, thereby setting a precedent for future governance. By highlighting Tinubu’s willingness to make the difficult decisions that previous administrations had sidestepped, Shettima positions him as a trailblazer in Nigerian politics, not just as a leader of his time but as a transformative figure whose decisions echo through the annals of history. His speeches, often delivered with a fervor that matches the gravity of the challenges at hand, serve to rally both the government and citizens around a shared vision of progress and resilience. His words resonate with a sense of urgency and responsibility, suggesting that the bold initiatives undertaken by Tinubu are not merely political maneuvers but foundational shifts designed to safeguard the nation’s future.

His rhetoric, therefore, not only celebrates Tinubu’s decisive actions but also frames them as pivotal moments in Nigeria’s political narrative, reinforcing the idea that true leadership is defined by the courage to act when others hesitate. Such rhetoric not only aims to inspire confidence in current governmental strategies but also to cultivate a legacy of courageous leadership that future generations can emulate. His articulation of these themes is bolstered by the tangible outcomes of Tinubu’s policies, which have already begun to reshape the economic landscape, demonstrating the real-world impact of courageous governance.
As Shettima eloquently underscores, Tinubu’s leadership is not just about immediate gains but about laying the groundwork for a sustainable and prosperous future. In this context, Shettima’s rhetoric serves as both a testament to and a catalyst for the transformative impact of Tinubu’s leadership, illustrating how bold decisions today can redefine tomorrow’s possibilities. His consistent emphasis on the necessity of these decisions, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and the stabilization of the forex market, underscores a commitment to long-term national interests over short-term political gains.
Indeed, confronting these entrenched challenges head-on, Shettima argues, Tinubu is not only rewriting history but also providing a blueprint for future governance that prioritizes resilience and adaptability. His rhetoric, therefore, not only celebrates the present administration’s accomplishments but also serves as a clarion call for future leaders to embrace similarly bold and forward-thinking approaches.
* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.
Rhetoric of Vice President Kashim Shettima: Speaks of Courage and Shaping History in President Tinubu’s Leadership
National News
Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder

Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder
Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno that his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is a decision he will never regret.
Speaking on Saturday in Uyo during a grand reception held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Shettima said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally sent a message to the governor, assuring him that the APC would be home to him and his supporters.

“This party is your home. You will not be humiliated. You will not be forsaken,” Shettima declared. “Mr. President asked me to assure you personally—no one will question your place here.”
Describing Tinubu as a “bridge-builder” and “deep-rooted democrat,” the Vice President praised the president’s enduring commitment to democratic values, recalling how he stood firm during challenging political periods in Nigeria’s history.
“Few figures in our national history have given as much and demanded so little in return,” Shettima said, referencing Tinubu’s past political sacrifices.

The Vice President noted that the APC is not a party driven by media hype but by vision, merit, and loyalty. “We are not just a political platform; we are a movement,” he added.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno said he joined the APC to align with the Tinubu-led administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and fast-track the realization of key infrastructural projects, including the long-delayed Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom.
“My progressive state movement is predicated on enlightened state interest—to support Mr. President’s bold and audacious reforms,” the governor said.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, welcomed the governor and his supporters, hailing the massive turnout as a demonstration of public trust in the APC.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized the significance of the governor’s defection, describing it not as just a political move but as a full-fledged “movement.” He assured Akwa Ibom citizens of the federal government’s support for development projects in the state.

Other notable speakers included Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Hope Uzodimma, who commended Governor Eno’s decision, and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, who declared the South-South zone’s full alignment with the federal government.
The event climaxed with the presentation of the APC flag and broom to Governor Eno, symbolizing his official welcome into the party and reaffirming the APC’s stance as a vehicle of national progress.
Shettima Welcomes Akwa Ibom Governor to APC, Says Tinubu Is a Bridge-Builder
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