What Have I Done To Deserve All This Serap Sues INEC Chairman Over Inaction on Electoral Offenders

The allegations involve bribery, vote-buying, and other misconduct reportedly linked to state governors and their deputies.

Justice Obiora Atuegwu Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja had directed INEC on July 18, 2024, to investigate these claims, appoint independent counsel, and prosecute those suspected of electoral malpractices. However, INEC has yet to act, leading the court to issue a warning of potential imprisonment for Professor Yakubu due to non-compliance.

A notice to Professor Yakubu emphasized his obligation to uphold the court’s ruling or face legal repercussions. In a statement on October 27, 2024, SERAP Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare condemned INEC’s inaction, asserting that it undermines the rule of law in Nigeria.

SERAP highlighted that unaddressed electoral misconduct obstructs credible elections and threatens Nigeria’s democracy. Justice Egwuatu’s ruling noted that electoral violence hampers Nigeria’s democratic and economic growth. Citing sections of the Electoral Act and the Constitution, he emphasized INEC’s duty to prosecute offenders to protect citizens’ rights and promote the community’s well-being.

SERAP’s suit, based on the Sheriff and Civil Process Act and relevant court rules, seeks INEC’s compliance with the court’s orders of mandamus, compelling thorough investigations and prosecutions related to the 2023 elections. A hearing date has yet to be scheduled for the contempt suit.