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XRAYING THE 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS AS A VOTER AND AN OBSERVER

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Buhari Reveals Why He Chose Tinubu, Read His Dull Farewell Speech 

XRAYING THE 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS AS A VOTER AND AN OBSERVER

 

 

 

 

 

2023 ELECTIONS– As Nigerians and the rest of the world await the swearing into office of the President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his vice Presidential candidate Distinguish Senator Kashim Shettima and other elected representatives following the fair, successful and credible conduct of the 2023 general elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), save for inconclusive elections in some constituencies of which supplementary elections have been scheduled for 15th of May 2023, it becomes imperative for Nigerians who were active participants in the process to state their own side of the story in order to debunk the litany of lies, falsehood and misinformation against the election from expected quarters and which must not be allowed to go unchallenged.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As a Nigerian who played a double role as a voter and an INEC accredited observer, one owes it to posterity to document his or her experience in the 2023 general elections as a reference for the future.

 

 

 

 

 

On the 25th of February 2023, Nigerians in their millions trooped out to the polls to elect the President, his Vice, Senators and members of the House of Representatives across 176, 606 polling stations nationwide. Same scenario repeated itself in the Governorship and states House of Assembly elections on the 18th of March 2023. As expected, the elections went on smoothly in some places, while in some other places, there were skirmishes which resulted in disruptions of polls. That this election was fiercely contested by the parties is not a new thing to our democracy because this has been the trend also in previous republics before 1999 when we birthed this republic. That there were disruptions of elections in some places is also not a new thing, as we have become accustomed to anti-democratic elements baring their fangs on Election Day in various forms, which is condemnable and unacceptable.

 

XRAYING THE 2023 GENERAL ELECTIONS AS A VOTER AND AN OBSERVER

 

 

 

 

An indisputable fact of the 25th February 2023 Presidential and national assembly elections was that logistics challenge reared its ugly head again as INEC personnel arrived late at polling stations resulting in polls not commencing at the official time of 8.30am in some polling stations, though it did commence at official starting time in some other places. The truth of the matter is that because of this logistics challenge, polling in some constituencies were extended till Sunday the 26th February 2023 and we also had the issue of rescheduling of elections in some polling stations to the following day because of security challenge, (e.g. 141 units in Bayelsa state, some units in Lagos state and other states).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 18th March 2023 gubernatorial and house of assembly elections witnessed remarkable improvements in logistics issues nationwide which could be attributed to the outcry of Nigerians which might have forced the electoral umpire to sit up. But sadly, some interest(s) who are always on the lookout for our dark side, seeing this logistics improvements by INEC, resorted to attempt to blackmail the election on the grounds of electoral violence without providing statistical data of instances to substantiate how the successful and credible conduct of the election has been marred by what they profess, which is pure mischief.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So for the hasty generalization that the election was marred by logistics challenge to be tenable in this age of science, such a person, group or organization must be asked to substantiate the blanket statement with a data of the mention of the particulars of the polling units affected out of 176, 606 polling stations, 8,809 wards and 774 local governments council areas nationwide. For the allegation of malpractice against the 2023 general elections to withstand scrutiny, we need to ask those parroting it, to identify and mention at what levels did the malpractice take place and with facts, they should mention the names/codes of the polling stations, RA/Wards, local governments and states?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to section 63(1) of the 2022 electoral Act, The Presiding Officer must count the votes at the polling unit and enter the votes scored by each candidate into the form prescribed by INEC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section 63(2) states that, subsequently, this form must be signed and stamped by the Presiding Officers and counter-signed by candidates or their polling agents if they are at the polling unit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section 63(3) states that, thereafter, a copy of the forms must be given to the polling agents and the police by the Presiding Officer. This process is applicable to result forms completed at the ward, local government, state and national level – Section 74.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to section 63(4), the Presiding Officer must count and announce the result at the polling unit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section 64 states that, in certain instances after the counting of votes, a candidate or a polling agent may request that the Presiding Officer recount the votes. In such cases, the Presiding Officer should do so, but only once.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section 65 states that, after the recording and announcement of the result, the Presiding Officer has a duty to deliver the result along with election materials under security accompanied by the candidate or their polling agents to a person that has been prescribed by INEC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In addition, Article 38(I) of INEC revised rules and guidelines states that, “On completion of all the polling unit voting and results procedures, the Presiding Officer shall: (1) Electronically transmit OR transfer the result of the Polling Unit, direct to the collation system as prescribed by the commission.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(II) Use the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) to upload a scanned copy of the EC8A to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), as prescribed by the Commission.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(III) Take the BVAS and the original copy of each of the forms in tamper evident envelope to the Registration Area/Ward Collation Officer, in the company of the security agents. The Polling Agents may accompany the Presiding Officer to the RA/Ward Collation Centre”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From the narrations of the electoral act 2022 and INEC rules and guidelines as cited above, one can see and read very clearly what the law says about procedures of vote counting and collation of election results which passes through several stages from the polling station, to the ward, local government, state and national level. At every stage save for the polling unit where the voters are present, every other stage accommodates all the other stakeholders and even makes it compulsory for the party agents if they are present, to be witness who must counter-sign and be given copies of result sheets as well as the security agencies in order to confer legitimacy on the process.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

According to both the 2022 electoral act and INEC rules and guidelines, the emphasis is on, as prescribed by the Commission. We must also take special notice of Article 38(I) of INEC rules and guidelines which states, …..Electronically transmit OR transfer the result of the Polling Unit direct to the collation system as prescribed by the Commission. So one wonders the source of authority of claimants of stolen mandate on the basis of non-uploading of polling station results on IReV? We must ask them to provide proof of provisions in the electoral act, where this action translates to electoral malpractice?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the successful and credible conduct of the 2023 general elections so far, no political party or candidate has been bold enough to come out publicly and provide with evidence, where in any stage of the process, in any part of the country, the above mentioned provisions of the electoral law were violated by INEC. Rather, some candidates and their supporters have been fouling the public space with emotional outburst of rigging, malpractice and stolen mandate just to incite and threaten national security.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Infact, a particular candidate, party and supporters have hinged their cries of electoral malpractice of the 2023 general elections on the grounds that the results were not uploaded on the IRev viewing portal, which is mischievous and laughable. Nigerians should ask such people if the non-uploading of polling units results on the IRev portal invalidates the counter signed polling station results sheets given to their party agents by the Presiding Officer and of which a copy was also given to security officials? We should ask them to provide copies of the results collated at the ward, local government and state levels as attested to and counter-signed by their party agents in order to expose their mischief and fraud.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

An undeniable truth of the 2023 general elections is that it was successfully and creditably conducted by INEC in substantial compliance with the provisions of the electoral law as stipulated which is commendable. Any candidate or party which feels otherwise, is hereby advised to seek the judicial option rather than the mischief, lies, falsehood, misinformation and emotional outcry of malpractice and stolen mandate.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nigerians should reject any attempt to take them for a ride and ridicule by person(s), groups and organizations whether local or international who are crying wolf over the 2023 general elections only on the basis of emotions and political bias and not facts. We should demand and remind those who are alledging electoral malpractice to stop insulting our collective intelligence in the public space, but that they should gather their evidence to establish their case in court as prescribed by the law, enough is enough of this political shenanigan and incitement.

 

 

 

 

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Thanks.

Yours Sincerely,

Nelson Ekujumi,

Director, media and mobilization,

Voters Awareness Initiative (VAI), INEC accredited observer organization for the 2023 general elections.

nelekujumi@gmail.com

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Crisis Averted? Tinubu Settles Lagos Assembly Rift, Affirms Obasa’s Leadership

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Crisis Averted? Tinubu Settles Lagos Assembly Rift, Affirms Obasa’s Leadership

Tinubu Intervenes in Lagos Assembly Crisis, Upholds Obasa as Speaker

President Bola Tinubu has successfully intervened in the lingering leadership crisis in the Lagos State House of Assembly, endorsing Mudashiru Obasa’s continued tenure as Speaker despite previous recommendations for his resignation.

The resolution followed a crucial meeting between Tinubu and all 40 lawmakers at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday. The President’s decision, however, runs contrary to the recommendations of a panel previously established to mediate the crisis.

Reversal of Agreement

The panel, led by former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande and former Ogun State Governor Chief Gbenga Daniel, along with members of the Governance Advisory Council, initially advised that Obasa should return as Speaker but step down shortly after, allowing for a new Speaker from Lagos West in the interest of political balance.

On March 3, 2025, Mojisola Meranda, who had taken over from Obasa after his impeachment, resigned from her position and was re-elected as Deputy Speaker. Obasa was subsequently reinstated in line with the agreement. However, in a dramatic twist, he indefinitely adjourned the Assembly and refused to step down as originally planned.

Tinubu Brokers Lasting Peace

During the closed-door meeting, Tinubu urged lawmakers to put aside their grievances and work together under Obasa’s leadership to ensure stability in the Assembly and across Lagos State.

“Tinubu met with the lawmakers behind closed doors. They expressed their concerns, and he resolved the issues. Obasa will remain as Speaker, and the lawmakers have agreed to work with him,” a source familiar with the meeting revealed.

Despite dissatisfaction among some Lagos stakeholders over Obasa’s defiance of the original agreement, the source assured that Tinubu would engage all concerned parties to maintain unity.

“Some stakeholders are naturally displeased that Obasa reneged on the agreement with the Akande panel, but the President will address their concerns to ensure lasting peace,” the source added.

Obasa to Withdraw Lawsuit

In a further development, Tinubu directed Obasa to withdraw his lawsuit challenging his impeachment at the Lagos State High Court.

“The President told the lawmakers to allow Obasa to work, and in return, Obasa must withdraw his case against Meranda and the Assembly members in court. The lawmakers have agreed to this arrangement,” another insider disclosed.

Prior to this directive, Obasa’s lawyer, Chief Fashanu Afolabi (SAN), had confirmed that despite his reinstatement, the Speaker had not withdrawn his lawsuit, arguing that the allegations against him—ranging from high-handedness to financial mismanagement—needed to be addressed.

With Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court set to hear the case on March 17, 2025, all eyes are now on Obasa’s next move following Tinubu’s directive.

Political Ramifications

The intervention by Tinubu, a towering figure in Lagos politics, signals his firm grip over the state’s political structure. However, the decision to allow Obasa to remain as Speaker could spark further discontent among factions within the ruling party and raise questions about adherence to internal agreements.

For now, the Lagos State House of Assembly crisis appears to have been temporarily resolved, but the long-term political implications remain to be seen.

 

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Nothing Lasts Forever! Fubara Reacts After Being Locked Out of Rivers Assembly

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Nothing Lasts Forever! Fubara Reacts After Being Locked Out of Rivers Assembly"

LOCKED OUT: RIVERS STATE GOVERNOR DENIED ENTRY TO ASSEMBLY, BUDGET PRESENTATION STALLED

…Fubara Laments Attempt to Frustrate Governance
…Tension Mounts as Assembly Faction Defies Supreme Court Ruling
…Tinubu Pressures Governor to Implement Verdict Amid Growing Political Standoff

 

Rivers State was thrown into fresh political turmoil on Wednesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara was denied access to the Port Harcourt Aba Road temporary Rivers State House of Assembly complex, effectively blocking him from presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

Accompanied by his entourage, Fubara arrived at the Assembly Quarters only to be met with locked gates, an action seen as a bold and calculated move by the 27 lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The incident underscores the deepening power struggle between the governor and Wike’s faction, which the Supreme Court recently recognized as the legitimate Assembly leadership.

48-Hour Ultimatum and Assembly’s Defiance

The legislative crisis escalated after the pro-Wike lawmakers issued Fubara a 48-hour ultimatum to present the budget, challenging an earlier approval by a four-member faction of lawmakers aligned with the governor. However, instead of attending the session, Fubara invited the lawmakers to Government House, Port Harcourt, a move they outrightly rejected.

Governor Fubara Reacts: ‘I Leave Everything to God’

Addressing the development during the inauguration of the Bori Zonal Hospital in Khana LGA, Governor Fubara expressed disappointment at the obstruction, emphasizing that his priority remained the state’s economic stability and the welfare of civil servants. He lamented the resistance he has faced in executing governance duties despite following due process.

“I made frantic efforts to reach the Speaker, which I believe he cannot deny, alongside other members of the Assembly,” Fubara stated. “I even sent WhatsApp messages to them, notifying them that I would be coming at 10 a.m. to present the budget. This was to ensure that Rivers State does not face any crisis because of me, as some have alleged.”

Despite his efforts, Fubara said he was left standing outside the legislative complex, only to hear claims that no official communication was made regarding his visit.

“I leave everything to God, who sees all things in secret,” he added. “Like I have always said, nothing lasts forever. Even the greatest power eventually comes to an end. What matters is how we use power. I have chosen not to abuse mine, no matter what they claim.”

Presidential Pressure: Tinubu Orders Compliance with Supreme Court Verdict

The budget blockade comes just 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu directed Governor Fubara to implement the Supreme Court’s ruling recognizing the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers. During a high-stakes meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu reinforced his stance, demanding adherence to the court’s decision to prevent further instability in the oil-rich state.

However, Fubara’s camp views the legislative impasse as an orchestrated attempt to sabotage his administration. His allies argue that the governor is being cornered into submission, with the opposition exploiting institutional control to dictate terms.

Calls for Resignation, Threats of Impeachment

Adding to the already volatile situation, Tony Okocha, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, called for Fubara’s resignation, warning that failure to comply with the Supreme Court ruling could lead to impeachment proceedings. The remarks signal a potential escalation in the crisis, with political forces aligning to push Fubara into a corner.

As tensions mount, Rivers State finds itself at the center of a deepening political crisis. The coming days will determine whether Fubara can navigate the high-stakes battle or if the opposition forces will tighten their grip on the state’s political landscape. One thing remains certain—this is a battle far from over.

 

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Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens as Speaker Obasa and Former Speaker Meranda Clash Over N5 Billion Vehicle Purchase

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Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens as Speaker Obasa and Former Speaker Meranda Clash Over N5 Billion Vehicle Purchase

Lagos Assembly Crisis Deepens as Speaker Obasa and Former Speaker Meranda Clash Over N5 Billion Vehicle Purchase

The Lagos State House of Assembly has plunged into further turmoil following the controversial purchase of N5 billion worth of vehicles for lawmakers, exacerbating the already strained relationship between Speaker Mudashiru Obasa and his predecessor, Mojisola Meranda.

Investigations by The PUNCH revealed that during Obasa’s removal as Speaker, Meranda facilitated the purchase of 39 vehicles for lawmakers. However, it emerged that before his ouster, Obasa had approved N7 billion for the same procurement, with plans to source the vehicles from Dubai. His removal on January 13, 2025, by 35 out of 40 lawmakers, citing highhandedness and financial mismanagement, paved the way for Meranda to assume the Speaker position.

Meranda’s tenure, however, was short-lived as she resigned on March 3, 2025, after intense pressure from the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership, allowing Obasa to reclaim the speakership while she reverted to her Deputy Speaker role. Despite this political settlement, legal and financial disputes between the two factions continue to rage.

Legal Battle Over Procurement

The controversy now centers on the legality of the vehicle purchase made under Meranda’s leadership. Sources close to Obasa allege that she acted without proper authorization, thereby undermining his earlier procurement strategy.

“He had approved the money before his removal. But Meranda proceeded with buying them, a move that infuriated Obasa,” an anonymous aide to the Speaker disclosed.

Another insider added, “In December, Obasa approved the purchase of those vehicles from Dubai. However, after his removal, Meranda changed the process to open bidding, leading to local procurement instead. That is the major difference.”

Meranda’s Defense: A Cost-Saving Measure

Meranda’s camp has firmly defended her decision, asserting that she actually saved the state N2 billion by purchasing 32 units of the 2025 Toyota Prado SUV and seven units of the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser for N5 billion, compared to Obasa’s planned expenditure of N7 billion for 35 Toyota Fortuner SUVs and 10 Toyota Prados.

A close associate of Meranda emphasized, “Let it be known that Rt. Hon. Mojisola Meranda never withdrew funds from the Assembly’s account. She merely adjusted an existing procurement approval, resulting in significant cost savings.”

He further argued that Meranda’s decision to source the vehicles locally ensured better financial prudence and transparency. “Unlike Obasa, who planned to import the vehicles from Dubai, all the cars were purchased domestically. Also, she did not approve any vehicle for herself as Speaker, unlike past administrations,” he added.

Court Showdown Looms

Despite political efforts to resolve the leadership crisis, Obasa remains steadfast in challenging his removal in court. His lawyer, Chief Fashanu Afolabi (SAN), underscored the significance of the case, stating, “The allegations against him, including highhandedness and fraudulent practices, are serious and must be legally addressed.”

Justice Yetunde Pinheiro of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja has now set March 17, 2025, for the next hearing, after an initial adjournment from March 10, following further filings by Obasa’s legal team.

What Lies Ahead?

The unresolved legal battles and lingering power struggle between Obasa and Meranda continue to cast a shadow over the Assembly’s stability. As the legal proceedings unfold, the implications of the procurement controversy and the broader leadership crisis could shape the political landscape of Lagos in the coming months.

 

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