CHRICED Urges INEC To Resist Political Interference In Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Recall.
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to resist any form of political interference in the recall petition against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
In a statement on Friday, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, described the recall attempt as a politically motivated move by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kogi State. He expressed concerns that INEC appears to be yielding to political pressure from those orchestrating the recall.
Zikirullahi urged the electoral body to uphold its constitutional duty of neutrality and to avoid being used as a tool for political victimisation.
According to CHRICED, the push to remove Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan is not just about her as an individual but part of a broader plan to strengthen the APC’s hold on power in Kogi Central.
The organisation alleged that some constituents were deceived into signing the recall petition under the false impression that they were supporting a government-led empowerment initiative.
CHRICED has therefore called for a thorough investigation into the claims of deception, insisting that those responsible should be held accountable.
“We strongly urge INEC to prioritise democratic principles and the rule of law by conducting a comprehensive review of the recall petition,” Zikirullahi said.
He further stated that if any discrepancies, fraudulent signatures, or procedural irregularities are discovered, INEC must withdraw the recall notice immediately.
“If the recall process proceeds, it is crucial that INEC conducts it with the utmost neutrality, professionalism, and transparency, ensuring close monitoring by civil society organisations and the media,” he added.
CHRICED also reminded INEC that its operations, including the recall process, are funded by taxpayers, and any misuse of public resources for politically motivated purposes undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system.
