Nigeria: Chatham House Group Commends INEC for Upholding Democratic Integrity, Urges Restraint Over Recall Bid

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received praise from the Chatham House Group. This group consists of young professionals from Kogi State. They commend INEC for its commitment to transparency and justice in Nigeria's elections.

The praise comes after INEC dismissed a petition to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. She represents Kogi Central in the Nigerian Senate. The group's convener, Abdulrahman Zulqarnien Ozovehe, signed the statement praising INEC's decision.

The Chatham House Group called INEC's action "resolute and impartial." They described the petition as unsubstantiated. The group believes this reflects INEC's independence and adherence to constitutional requirements.

They highlighted Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines recall processes. The statement said, "This decision is a bold testament to INEC's commitment." It emphasizes justice, transparency, and constitutional propriety in Nigeria’s democracy.

The group also noted that INEC’s decision protects Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s mandate. It reinforces the importance of safeguarding democratic tools from misuse.

Describing Nigeria as developing its democratic institutions, they stressed independent bodies like INEC are essential. They stated, "The Commission's decision is a victory for democracy." It reminds us that electoral processes must be fair and legal for the people's interest.