Weak institutions and the electoral offence conundrum: A glaring case of Senators Godswill Akpabio and Ahmed Lawan
By Comrade Victor Ojei
Introduction:
In Nigeria, the Electoral Act of 2022 clearly states that it is a criminal offense for a candidate to obtain multiple nomination forms and run for office in more than one constituency in the same election. However, it seems that many politicians remain ignorant of this law, and even when their actions come to light, enforcement by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) is often lacking. One such glaring example is the case of Senator Godswill Akpabio, the current Senate President, who was involved in both the Presidential Primaries for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Senate elections in the same calendar year. This raises serious concerns about the weakness of our institutions and the selective enforcement of laws in Nigeria.
The Electoral Offense and Ignorance of the Law:
Section 115 (D) of the Electoral Act 2022 explicitly states that a candidate who signs a nomination paper or result form in more than one constituency during the same election commits an offense and is liable to imprisonment for up to two years. It is worth emphasizing that ignorance of the law is not an excuse for violating it. Politicians claiming to have participated in one election but filling out two forms are merely displaying their lack of knowledge about the law.
Institutional Responsibility and the Role of INEC:
While politicians may bear individual responsibility for their actions, it is the duty of the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce the law and ensure compliance with electoral regulations. INEC is expected to investigate allegations of electoral offenses and, if necessary, seek redress through the Federal High Courts. However, in the case of Senator Godswill Akpabio, it appears that INEC has turned a blind eye to the violation of the Electoral Act.
Selective Enforcement and Weak Institutions:
The failure of INEC to take decisive action against Senator Akpabio and Senator Ahmed Lawan, the previous Senate President, in similar circumstances raises questions about the strength of our institutions. It seems that certain individuals within the political elite enjoy a level of impunity, which undermines the credibility and integrity of our democratic processes.
Senator Lawan reportedly requested the winner of the Yobe North senatorial primary election, Bashir Machina, to relinquish his ticket after losing the APC presidential ticket. This demonstrates a sense of entitlement and disregard for the rules that should govern our electoral system.
Conclusion:
The case of Senator Godswill Akpabio and Senator Ahmed Lawan, both involved in obtaining multiple nomination forms and running for different positions in the same election year, highlights the weaknesses of our institutions in Nigeria.
The failure of INEC to enforce the Electoral Act 2022 and hold these politicians accountable for their actions erodes public trust and undermines the foundations of our democracy.
It is imperative that INEC fulfills its duty of care and acts as an impartial guardian of the electoral process. Selective enforcement of laws perpetuates a culture of impunity and sends a message that the political elite are above the law. Strengthening our institutions and ensuring equal application of the law are crucial steps toward a more transparent, accountable, and democratic Nigeria.
By Comrade Victor Ojei popularly called Wong Box (WhatsApp us via 08038785262). Feel free to engage with us via WhatsApp. Our Facebook handle is @Wong Box
