Labour Party, on Sunday, condemned the conduct of Saturday’s by-elections, describing the exercise as a significant setback for Nigeria’s democracy.
LP expressed deep concern over the conduct of the by-elections held across 16 states.
Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the Acting National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, in a statement, alleged irregularities including vote-buying, electoral violence, and lack of transparency in the process.
LP said the by-elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission, fell short of acceptable democratic standards.
“What transpired across Nigeria in the name of by-elections amounted to a mockery of democracy. From Kaduna to Anambra, Ogun to Oyo and Kano, reports indicated incidents of vote-buying, voter intimidation, and logistical lapses,” the statement partly read.
It therefore demanded urgent reforms and improved oversight in the electoral process, warning that failure to act may impact the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
“If INEC cannot conduct limited off-season elections with transparency and credibility, it raises serious concerns about its ability to manage a nationwide general election in 2027,” it stated.
LP however urged President Bola Tinubu to take decisive steps to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and processes.
“The credibility of our electoral system is fundamental to the stability of our democracy. It is imperative that the government addresses growing public concern about electoral transparency and security,” the LP added.
Earlier, INEC had adjudged the by-elections as largely peaceful and successful, despite isolated incidents in some polling units.
