The South-East National Vice Chairman of the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), Peter Okafor, has denounced the recent Enugu North Senatorial District by-election, labeling the process a mockery of democratic principles. Speaking from Nsukka, Okafor stated that the event was plagued by severe violence, voter suppression, and the forceful seizure of ballot boxes.
Okafor highlighted incidents of physical aggression, including reports that a PRP supporter suffered a gunshot wound while another was injured with an axe. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to void the election or declare PRP candidate Charles Ugwuanyi the victor. Juliet Ugwuoke, Director-General of the PRP campaign, supported these claims, noting that party agents were forcibly removed from multiple polling stations.
Bishop Oscar Ossai, the senatorial candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has also formally rejected the election results. Following discussions with stakeholders, Ossai asserted that the process lacked transparency and fairness. He cited the failure to utilize the Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) in several areas and noted significant discrepancies between polling unit results and final collation figures.
The NDC candidate further alleged widespread vote-buying, harassment, and illegal ballot manipulation. Ossai confirmed that his legal team is currently gathering evidence, including witness testimonies and video documentation, to challenge the results in court. He called for a thorough investigation by security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the violence and electoral malpractice are held accountable.
