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Ekiti Election Fell Short of Global Standards, Say US Observer Group, Others

Published

7 years ago

July 18, 2018

Eric

A coalition of domestic and international election observers accredited to observe the July 14 governorship poll in Ekiti State said the election fell short of global best practices and electoral standards.

The Independent National Electoral Commission declared the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Kayode Fayemi, as the winner of the election.

The observers, who comprised representatives from over 50 domestic organisations, human rights groups and international election observer bodies, based their report on lapses noticed in the conduct of the election, especially the role of security agencies.

The observers include Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, Nigeria; Justice and Equity Organisation, Nigeria; International Republican Institute, United States of America; and Patriotic Women Foundation, Abuja, as well as the other bodies from the African Unions, among others.

The observers, who praised INEC for the proper conduct of the poll in line with global and constitutional dictates and standards, faulted the deployment of 30,000 policemen for the election.

The observers stated that the conduct of some of the security operatives and unwholesome practices of vote buying — where voters surreptitiously showed which party they voted to party agents who went behind to settle them, largely marred the electoral process.

They also said the election was characterised by ballot box snatching, sporadic shootings and driving away of some party agents as well as intimidation, oppression and forceful influence of electorate’s free will, among others.

The observers, therefore, held that the July 14 poll could not be recommended as a template for the forthcoming 2019 general elections as it fell short of global standards and spelt doom.

Addressing newsmen on behalf of the domestic observers, Gabriel Nwambu, of the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, Abuja, said, “The exercise witnessed a high level of unprecedented electoral related challenges and such abuse will remain contentious until justice prevails, especially in the areas of cash inducement, arrests of political stalwarts by security agents and snatching of electoral materials by political thugs, among other abuses.

“Party agents had huge cash and were close to voting points. Security agents were indifferent to cash inducement of voters. The whole process falls short of the compliance with international best standards.”

One of the International observers, Mrs Virginia Marumoa-Gae, of the IRI, USA, said trouble began at 11 am when “see and buy” started and this caused chaos across all the wards and polling units.

“Voters showed their ballot papers to party agents to collect money, thugs disrupted the voting process by shooting, but the police and other attaching security agents did well by establishing their presence at the polling units as stipulated by the constitution. We also noted that the INEC has improved on card readers this time,” she submitted.

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Tinubu Appoints Ex-Lagos Transport Comm., Opeifa, As Railway Corporation MD

Published

18 hours ago

January 22, 2025

Eric

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR has appointed Dr. Kayode Opeifa as the Managing Director of the Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), a move widely praised for its strategic significance.

Dr. Opeifa, a renowned transportation expert and former Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, is celebrated for his transformative policies that redefined public transport and traffic management in one of Africa’s busiest cities.

During his tenure as Commissioner, Dr. Opeifa introduced reforms that significantly eased traffic congestion, improved public transportation systems, and laid a solid foundation for Lagos State’s rapid urban growth.

His expertise extended to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where he served as Transport Secretary, implementing forward-thinking policies that enhanced mobility in the nation’s capital.

In his new role, Dr. Opeifa is expected to spearhead the modernization of Nigeria’s railway network, a critical infrastructure component for the nation’s economic advancement.

Industry stakeholders have expressed optimism about his appointment, highlighting his extensive experience in transportation planning and infrastructure development as assets for implementing sustainable solutions.

“This is a timely and commendable appointment,” noted one transportation expert. “Dr. Opeifa’s deep understanding of Nigeria’s transportation challenges makes him the ideal candidate to drive meaningful reforms in the railway sector.”

The Tinubu administration’s decision underscores its commitment to appointing competent professionals to execute its Renewed Hope agenda. With Dr. Opeifa at the helm, there is growing anticipation that the NRC will achieve improved connectivity, efficiency, and broader contributions to national development.

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SERAP Demands Reversal of Hike in Telecom Tariff

Published

24 hours ago

January 22, 2025

Eric

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has demanded the reversal of the recent 50% hike in telecom tariffs, issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to the Federal government.

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), on January 20, 2025, announced regulatory approval for telecom operators to raise tariffs by 50 per cent. The agency said the tariff hike will help the operators improve the country’s telecommunication infrastructure.

The tariff hike follows agitations from the Association of Licensed Telecommunications Operators of Nigeria (ALTON) and the Association of Telecommunications Companies of Nigeria (ATCON) to review call tariffs upwards.

SERAP described the increase as “unlawful” and warned of impending legal action if the government and telecom operators fail to reverse the decision.

“The Tinubu administration and telcos must immediately reverse the unlawful increase in calls and data costs. We’ll see in court if the 50% tariff hike is not reversed within 48 hours,” the group declared.

SERAP’s ultimatum reflects growing public dissatisfaction over the hike, with many Nigerians expressing concerns about its impact on the cost of living.

The organization also insisted that the tariff hike violates the rights of consumers and threatens access to affordable communication services.

“This increase is not only unjustifiable but also unlawful. It risks undermining the accessibility of essential communication services for millions of Nigerians,” SERAP’s statement read.

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Gov Adeleke Mourns Late Erelu Ayeni, Says She Was Exceptional

Published

3 days ago

January 20, 2025

Eric

The Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Erelu (Mrs.) Anthonia Abiodun Ayeni, fondly known as “Mama Yemi” or “Madam YEMKEM.”

Speaking during a condolence visit to the family of the late Erelu Ayeni, Governor Adeleke described her as a pillar of strength and an embodiment of grace and hospitality. He fondly recalled her warmth and kindness, particularly during his visits to Oye-Ekiti, where she consistently made him feel at home.

“Erelu was an exceptional woman who treated me with the utmost care and respect. Her kindness and thoughtfulness were unparalleled,” Adeleke remarked.

The Governor recounted how Erelu Ayeni and her husband played a significant role in supporting his political journey. “When I shared my intention to run for governor, they not only prayed for me but also stood by me as pillars of encouragement. Even during the challenging aftermath of my first gubernatorial election, their unwavering support remained a source of strength,” he said.

Governor Adeleke further extolled Erelu Ayeni’s virtues as a loving wife, devoted mother, and a beacon of hope and support to her community. He emphasized that her exemplary character and selfless commitment to others had left an indelible mark on everyone who knew her.

“Mama Yemi’s generosity and steadfast faith will be deeply missed. While we mourn her departure, we take solace in the fact that she is now resting in the bosom of the Lord,” Adeleke concluded.

The Governor’s tribute was a testament to the profound impact Erelu Ayeni had on those around her, as family, friends, and well-wishers continue to mourn her loss.