The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu for defying a court order to investigate electoral offences from the 2023 elections. The court has warned Mahmood Yakubu of contempt charges for non-compliance.
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has filed a lawsuit against Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that he has neglected a court order to investigate serious electoral offences linked to the 2023 general elections. This lawsuit comes amid rising public scrutiny over INEC’s failure to act on bribery and vote-buying claims involving state governors and their deputies.
A July 2024 ruling by Justice Obiora Atuegwu Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja mandated INEC to appoint an independent counsel to investigate allegations of bribery, conspiracy, and undue influence in the electoral process. Despite receiving the certified court judgment, Professor Yakubu and INEC have reportedly ignored its directives, prompting SERAP to initiate legal action.
The Federal High Court warned Mahmood Yakubu in a notice of possible contempt, stating he would face imprisonment if he continued to defy the court order. SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, criticized INEC’s inaction as disrespectful to the court, asserting, “Despite receiving the certified judgment, INEC has blatantly failed to uphold the judicial directive.”
This latest controversy brings to light the recurring issues within Nigeria’s electoral system, as evidenced by fresh electoral offence allegations in Edo State. SERAP emphasized that these allegations undermine the democratic process and the integrity of Nigeria’s elections, raising questions about INEC’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
As SERAP’s case against INEC’s chair continues, citizens and stakeholders await the outcome, hoping for measures to ensure future elections are free from misconduct. SERAP has reiterated that the need for accountability and enforcement of electoral laws is more urgent than ever.
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