Politics
THE recent claim by the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Anugbum Onuoha, that he never denied the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), access to essential electoral materials has been described as misleading and a clear disregard for transparency and accountability within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
In a statement released on Wednesday, signed by Erhabor Emokpae in Benin City, the Team Asue Media Organisation (TAMO) asserted, “We categorically confirm that our application to inspect the Bimodal Voter Authentication System (BVAS) and other critical electoral materials was submitted over ten days ago. It is unacceptable that we are now only being ‘permitted’ to receive Certified True Copies (CTCs) of these materials just two days before the statutory deadline to file our case. This delay is not only a violation of our rights as a major stakeholder but also a direct threat to the integrity of the electoral process in Edo State. As the saying goes, ‘conscience is an open wound, only truth can heal it.’ “
TAMO further condemned the REC’s assertion that the PDP has fabricated its narrative, calling it a deliberate attempt to intimidate and obstruct their pursuit of justice. “Such statements reflect not just a failure of leadership but an alarming tendency to suppress the truth and mislead the public,” the statement continued.
“We urge the REC to acknowledge this procedural negligence and recognize the critical importance of ensuring access to electoral materials for all parties involved. Transparency is the foundation of any democratic process, and a failure to uphold this principle undermines not only INEC’s credibility but also public trust in the entire electoral system. In the end, history will vindicate the just,” TAMO concluded.
A.I
Oct. 10, 2024
Tags: Anugbum Onuoha Erhabor Emokpae TAMO
