The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to do some things. They want INEC to urgently seek the appointment of an independent counsel to investigate allegations of electoral violence.
Also, the independent counsel will investigate other electoral offences, including bribery, against any state governors and their deputies during the just-concluded general elections.
Further, SERAP urges him to promptly and effectively investigate reports of electoral violence. In addition, other electoral offences committed during the general elections. Then, to identify suspected perpetrators and their sponsors and ensure their effective prosecution, regardless of their political status or affiliations.
SERAP stated this in a letter dated March 25 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare. Also, the organization noted that by allegedly engaging in electoral violence, the perpetrators and their sponsors have clearly acted in violation of the Electoral Act.
Furthermore, SERAP observed that Section 52 of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act allows INEC to seek the appointment of an independent counsel. The duty of this counsel is to investigate allegations of electoral violence. Specifically, any other electoral offences that may have been committed by any state governor will be investigated.
Therefore, SERAP should collaborate with the ICPC and other law enforcement agencies. Equally important, SERAP requests the immediate implementation of measures within 7 days. If, after the duration of 7 days, no action has been taken, then SERAP will consider appropriate legal actions. Consequently, this action will compel INEC to comply with SERAP’s request in the public interest.
Finally, Mahmood Yakubu’s swift action will prove that INEC does not support infringement of the electoral process.