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EU Report On 2023 General Election Sparks Disagreement

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The European Union’s report on Nigeria’s 2023 general election has caused a rift between the presidency, the Labour Party, and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs).

While the government questions the report’s credibility, the LP accuses officials of attempting to save face while the CSOs have emphasized the importance of addressing the election’s shortcomings and implementing the EU’s recommendations.

The presidency, the Labour Party (LP), and Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) hold conflicting opinions regarding the European Union’s (EU) report on the 2019 general election submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

LP Accuses Government Of Saving Face

The LP responds to the EU report by accusing government officials of trying to protect their reputation rather than addressing the election’s flaws.

CSOs Call For Acknowledgement Of Gaps

CSOs, including Transparency International (TI), the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), and the Transition Monitoring Group (TMG), have urged the government to accept the EU report’s recommendations and acknowledge the gaps in the election process.

CSOs, represented by Awwal Musa Rafsanjani, highlight the alignment between the EU report and the observations made by local CSOs, stressing that the EU officials had been present in the country before the general elections.

They emphasize the need for INEC and the government to take the EU’s recommendations seriously to address the gaps identified.

Historical Precedent And Election Challenges

Rafsanjani cites former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s acknowledgment of gaps in the election that brought him to power as an example. He also references the numerous court cases related to the 2019 election, suggesting that the existence of these cases signifies underlying issues.

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CSOs Urge Government And INEC To Study Reports

The CSOs through their leader, Awwal Musa Rafsanjani advised the government and INEC to thoroughly study both the CSOs’ and the EU’s reports, making necessary amendments to improve the credibility of future elections.

Failure to address the identified gaps, Rafsanjani said could lead to decreased public participation in the electoral process.

IPAC Chairman Stresses Judicial Decision

Yabagi Sani, the National Chairman of the Inter-party Advisory Council (IPAC), acknowledges the government’s right to express its opinion on the EU report.
However, Sani, who spoke with Elanza News, emphasizes that the ultimate judgment lies with the court system, which will determine the credibility of the election.

Labour Party Condemns Government’s Response

The Labour Party criticizes the government’s attempts to discredit the EU report and considers it a feeble attempt to save face after the election. The party asserts that the EU report is just one of many submissions by international observers who viewed the election as flawed and unrepresentative of the majority.

LP Stands Firm On Election Rigging Allegations

The LP maintains its position that the 2019 election was heavily rigged in favor of the APC and its candidate. They argue that the government’s response is an afterthought aimed at concealing the obvious manipulation. The party urges the judiciary to deliver justice impartially for the sake of the nation and future generations.

INEC’s Independence Questioned

The LP highlights its concerns about INEC’s perceived lack of independence, claiming that the commission’s actions are influenced by the government’s wishes.

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They emphasize the importance of the judiciary in upholding justice and restoring the trust of the Nigerian electorate.

“In light of the divergent views and criticisms surrounding the 2023 general election, it is crucial to consider the steps needed to ensure future elections are independent and credible,” the party said.

Strengthening Electoral Institutions:

Efforts should be made to enhance the independence and transparency of electoral institutions like INEC. Implementing reforms that bolster their credibility and ensure impartiality is essential.

Electoral Reforms: Identifying and rectifying the gaps in the electoral process is vital. Stakeholders should engage in constructive dialogue to review existing laws and regulations, seeking ways to improve transparency, fairness, and inclusivity.

Civic Education and Voter Awareness: Promoting civic education programs that educate citizens about their rights, the electoral process, and the importance of active participation can help create an informed electorate.

International Observer Missions: Collaborating with international organizations, such as the European Union, to conduct comprehensive and impartial observer missions can provide valuable insights and recommendations to enhance the credibility of future elections.

Strengthening Judicial Independence: Upholding the independence of the judiciary is crucial for ensuring that election-related disputes are adjudicated impartially. Continued efforts should be made to safeguard the judiciary from external influence.

Public Confidence-Building Measures: Governments, political parties, and electoral institutions should prioritize measures that foster public confidence in the electoral process. This can include transparent communication, regular updates on electoral reforms, and proactive engagement with civil society organizations and the media.

By addressing these areas, Nigeria can work towards conducting elections that reflect the will of the people, enhance democratic values, and strengthen the country’s reputation both domestically and internationally.

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The EU report on Nigeria’s 2023 general election has sparked differing opinions among the presidency, the Labour Party, and CSOs.

While the government questions the report’s credibility, CSOs emphasize the importance of addressing the identified gaps.

The LP accuses the government of attempting to save face.

Elanza News reports that even though the CSOs want a crucial focus on reforms and measures that enhance the independence and credibility of electoral institutions, promote civic education, and strengthen the judiciary, the presidency is unwilling to accept the election was faulty.

“Only by addressing these aspects can Nigeria ensure independent and credible elections that truly represent the will of the people,” the CSOs said through their leader, Awwal Musa Rafsanjani.

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Tinubu passes vote of confidence on APC leadership

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President Bola Tinubu has expressed confidence in the ability of the All Progressives Congress (APC) leadership to build the nation, and significantly contribute to Africa’s growth.

Tinubu said this on Tuesday while addressing the APC Caucus meeting at the State House in Abuja.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the Renewed Hope Manifesto of the APC.

“We can steer the future of this country and make a difference. I like what is happening around the world.

” It is teaching a lesson that we, particularly Nigeria is a great African country that can build and help Africa to grow,” he said.

He underscored the importance of achieving food sovereignty and not just food security to better reposition the country as the nation with the capacity to reposition the continent.

“I am a very happy man, the sunny side of this country is on the horizon. Things are getting better, the days of gloom are gone.

”We are looking at the brighter and the sunny side of our country and our people.

He reassured the party members of his resolve to deliver in spite of the misleading, baseless, and pessimistic assertions made by his critics.

Tinubu noted the challenges confronting Nigerians regarding some of the policies introduced by his administration.

He said the fuel subsidy would have wrecked the country and denied citizens the opportunities of benefiting from the well-intended government interventions.

“Our determination to deliver is unshaking in spite of the cacophony of misguided unfounded and gloomy claims on the stage of the nation made by our detractors.

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” They will continue to do it but we are extremely focused,” he said.

Tinubu appealed to the APC Caucus members to further bear with his administration

” Our strategic repositioning requires us to build on our success and project a forward looking agenda that resonate with the hopes and aspiration of Nigerians.

“I am here promising that we are doing that, I have a commitment to our manifesto progressive ideas and the believe.”

Tinubu commended the APC National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje for the successes recorded in various elections.

“I thank the chairman of our party, Thank you Mr Chairman ,you have earned accolades from various elections

“You are our pride, we have a hardworking individual that have led the party so well and the members of working committee.” President Tinubu added.

Also, Sen. Abdulaziz Yari (APC- Zamfara West) testified during the APC Caucus meeting that the security situation had significantly improved in Zamfara. (NAN)

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APC united, supportive of Tinubu’s government – Uzodinma

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Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma has said the All Progressives Congress (APC) is united, stronger, focused and supportive of President Bola Tinubu led administration.

Uzodinma said this while briefing newsmen at the end of the party’s caucus meeting presided over by President Tinubu, at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, on Tuesday.

The governor debunked claims that the party operated as a one-man show, adding that the APC’s diverse representation across six geopolitical zones, including governors from various states at the meeting, underscored its inclusive nature.

He said the party’s structure, as outlined in its constitution, included multiple leadership positions and a hierarchical framework that ensured broad participation in decision-making processes.

“Our party is united, stronger, focused, and supportive of the government. We need to celebrate our own.

“The government is heavily supported by the APC, and from time to time, we must show that we are behind the government,” he said.

On internal party democracy, Uzodinma stated that APC was a very large political party with executives at all levels.

“We have our internal mechanism for selection. Why are we winning all these elections? It’s because we have demonstrated high capacity and respect for democracy,” he stated.

The governor said due to good leadership provided by Tinubu, the county was better off in terms of revenue generation which translated to more infrastructure, social change, and other economic dynamics.

According to him, APC is the party to beat and the envy of other political parties, not only in Nigeria but in Africa.

He said the party had inaugurated the Progressive Institute, its intellectual arm, to conduct research, training for manpower development and to build the intellectual capacity of members.

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He said President Tinubu’s efforts in managing insecurity were also commended at the meeting.

“The President has done very well in terms of managing the insecurity in the country, as testified today by one of our members in Zamfara State, where there is relative peace.

“Now, people are going about their businesses. Farmers have gone back to their farms in the southeast,” Uzodinma said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting brought together key party leaders, including Vice-President Kashim Shettima and the President of Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, the APC National Chairman, Gov. Umar Bago of Niger, Sen. Aliyu Wamakko, Gov. Nasiru Idris of Kebbi, Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, among others, also attended the meeting. (NAN)

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Alleged disorderly conduct: Senate refers Natasha to Ethics Committee

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The Senate on Tuesday referred Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP-Kogi) to its Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions over alleged disorderly conduct during a recent plenary session.

The committee, chaired by Sen. Neda Imaseun (LP, Edo), was mandated to turn in its findings in two weeks.

The upper chamber’s resolution was sequel to a voice vote after the lawmakers had revisited the controversy surrounding the recent altercation between Akpoti-Uduaghan and the senate leadership over seat allocation.

Coming under Order 1(b) and 10, the senate’s Spokesperson, Sen. Yemi Adaramodu, condemned what he described as Akpoti-Uduaghan’s “extreme intransigence” during the senate session on Feb. 20.

“From that Thursday, the media was awash with this issue and I had to work on mending the perception of the 10th senate.

“The senate is not a platform for content creation but a place for lawmaking and oversight functions,” he said.

Adaramodu urged the senate leadership to enforce discipline, warning that ‘where there is sin, there must be penalty’.

“This chamber is not a place for theatrics or social media content creation. We are here to legislate, advocate for our constituents and provide oversight over MDAs, not to engage in media dramatisation,” he said.

Sen. Jimoh Ibrahim (APC-Ondo) also supported the motion, emphasising the importance of maintaining order and decorum in the senate.

Ibrahim urged all senators to respect the institution’s guiding rules, comparing the Standing Orders to the Bible and Quran for lawmakers.

Also, the Senate Leader, Sen. Opeyemi Bamidele, moved a motion for the disciplinary review, affirming the senate’s commitment to its rules and internal order.

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According to him, there is no one who does not have an opinion on this issue, but we are unified by our rules.

“Under our watch, we will not allow this institution to be discredited beyond what we inherited. Our integrity is non-negotiable,” he said.

Bamidele dismissed claims that the dispute was rooted in gender bias or discrimination, citing examples of senior senators who had accepted seat changes without protest.

Contributing, the Senate Minority Leader, Sen. Abba Moro, described the incident as “an avoidable drama” and apologised on behalf of Akpoti-Uduaghan.

He urged the senate to focus on its legislative responsibilities, while allowing the ethics committee to handle the matter.

Responding, President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, directed the committee on ethics and privileges to review the entire incident and report back to the chamber in two weeks.

According to Akpabio, the senate rules allow members to sit anywhere, but that contributions must be made from their designated seats.

He said that lack of familiarity with the senate procedures might have contributed to the altercation.

“The first day she (Akpoti-Uduaghan) was sworn in, she stood up to contribute and I was worried if she had even read the rule book.

“There is nothing wrong with being vibrant but everything is wrong with disobeying procedures,” he said.

Citing Order 66(2) and Section 55 of Senate rules, he underscored the need for senators to conduct themselves with decorum, including prohibitions on chewing gum, drinking water or being disruptive during sittings.

“The rules empower the senate president to suspend a senator for infractions for, at least, 14 days. It’s not me who made the rules; it’s in the rule book,” Akpabio said. (NAN)

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