Edo/Ondo Elections: INEC Warns Disruption of Electoral Timelines Could Trigger Constitutional Crisis
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed concern over rising violence and inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the Edo and Ondo governorship elections, warning that disruptions to the electoral process could create a constitutional crisis.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Festus Okoye, said the commission had observed an escalation in violent incidents and provocative statements by political parties, candidates and their supporters.
According to INEC, the incidents included the destruction of campaign materials, attacks during political activities and the use of offensive or inflammatory language.
The commission urged security agencies, media regulators and other relevant institutions to strengthen enforcement of existing laws in order to protect the integrity of the elections.
INEC also reminded political parties and candidates that election campaigns were governed by laws and regulations which must be obeyed.
The commission warned that it would not hesitate to apply appropriate sanctions against individuals or political organisations found to have violated electoral rules.
INEC said it remained committed to conducting peaceful elections in Edo and Ondo states, as well as outstanding National and State Assembly bye-elections.
The commission noted that the elections were being organised during the COVID-19 pandemic and said additional measures were being taken to comply with health and safety guidelines.
It argued that residents of the two states should not be subjected to election-related violence while already dealing with the effects of the pandemic.
INEC particularly warned political actors that the Edo and Ondo governorship elections were governed by strict constitutional and statutory timelines.
According to the commission, violence capable of disrupting those timelines could have serious constitutional consequences.
INEC said it would continue engaging stakeholders in both states to promote free, fair, peaceful and safe elections.
It added that substantial public resources had already been committed to preparations and warned that any deliberate attempt to disrupt the process would be treated seriously.
The commission said it would work closely with security agencies to prevent and respond to threats of violence before and during the elections.
It also urged regulatory authorities responsible for addressing insecurity, hate speech and misuse of the media to ensure that offenders were held accountable.
INEC reassured voters in Edo and Ondo states that it remained determined to conduct credible and safe elections.
The commission, however, warned that it could suspend or discontinue electoral proceedings if the actions of political actors resulted in a credible and verifiable threat to public order or a breakdown of security.
