Natasha Recall: Electoral College Tasks INEC On Transparency

The Nigerian Electoral College has requested that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) guarantee that the recall procedure for the suspended senator for Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, follows the established guidelines.

INEC had communicated the commencement of the process in a letter to the Kogi Central Senator, Akpoti-Uduaghan, on Wednesday.

“Pursuant to Section 69 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended, I write to notify you of the receipt of a petition from representatives of registered voters in your constituency seeking your recall from the senate,” the letter read.

The notification added that, “The notification is in line with the provisions of clause 2 (a) of the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024.”

In a statement by its Executive Director, Kunle Lawal, the organisation urged INEC to conduct the process transparently and fairly.

It cautioned that any efforts to undermine or politicise the recall process could damage the integrity of democratic institutions.

The group also urged all stakeholders to uphold the legal framework and allow the process to unfold without interference.

“We emphasise that INEC must conduct this process with transparency, fairness, and strict adherence to its guidelines, ensuring that the will of the people is not manipulated.

“Any attempt to short-circuit or politicise the recall process would undermine the credibility of our democratic institutions.

“As a non-partisan institution, the Electoral College Nigeria does not take sides in political contests but remains committed to educating Nigerians on their rights and responsibilities.

“We urge all stakeholders to respect the legal framework and allow the process to run its course without interference,” the statement read.