INEC Observer Coalition Criticizes Nyesom Wike Over FCT Poll Conduct
A coalition of INEC-accredited election observer teams has recommended holding the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, accountable for alleged intimidation of opposition parties at polling units during the recent FCT election.
Addressing journalists, Professor Isaac E. Iduma, chairman of the coalition, reported that the preliminary findings indicated the election was marred by voter apathy and significant vote-buying, according to Daily Sun.
He noted that Wike, accompanied by a large security detail, traversed polling units on election day, which contributed to the ruling party’s victory.
Professor Iduma emphasized the coalition’s commitment to informing Nigerians and the international community about observed irregularities, to prepare for future elections, including 2027.
The coalition also observed a notable split of polling units just meters apart within the same premises, raising concerns about voter confusion.
“While INEC stated this did not affect voters’ registration status, the coalition expressed concerns over inadequate voter education and sensitization, which led some voters to struggle in locating their designated polling units or to leave in frustration,” he stated.
Most polling stations opened between 8:30am and 10:00am, with some officials already on-site awaiting voters.
Regarding the conduct of INEC officials, Iduma noted that most demonstrated competence in operating BVAS devices and understanding electoral procedures. However, some ad-hoc staff showed a lack of familiarity with observer protocols.
He accused the FCT Minister of conducting a self-assigned patrol within Abuja Area Municipal Council (AMAC) with heavily armed security, allegedly intimidating voters. Additionally, the coalition alleged that the APC induced voters with N2000 or more at certain polling units.
The coalition also condemned the death of Mr. Musa Mohammed, an ADC polling agent, who was reportedly beaten to death while defending his party’s votes.
Out of 17 political parties, only about five had complete party agent representation, with many agents using party-printed tags instead of INEC accreditation, and instances of intimidation, vote-buying, and misconduct reported.
Specific incidents included armed police seizing election materials in Gwagwa; the death of an ADC agent resisting efforts to obstruct votes; and violence in AMAC, where a voter was beaten for voting for PDP, with some observers detained.
Looking ahead, the coalition urges continued peaceful conduct in upcoming elections, including Osun and Ekiti, and seeks immediate reforms to improve electoral integrity and security, emphasizing the need for INEC to uphold credible standards.
The coalition comprises IFACEC, the Centre for Strategic Conflict Management, the African Christian Care Trust Organisation, the International Standard Centre for Development, and Patriotic Visioners Foundation, among others.
