Last week, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, in Cross River State, Dr Johnson Alalibo was reported to have warned politicians in his state not to think of doing anything that will compromise the electoral system.
In giving the warning, the REC had said that from the antecedent, politicians were always very comfortable going after INEC staff with money and other forms of enticing gifts, to be able to win their heart so that they can have their way and perpetuate their rigging plot.
He was very clear and blunt when he warned that anybody who tried to corrupt his staff would regret their actions. He was also reported to have warned that under the new INEC, there was no room for compromise.
His warning came just a few days before commencement of campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections. Rather than think of how to win elections through the back door, the REC had advised the politicians to think of how to sell themselves to the electorate so that they can win in the field.
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The warning could not have come at a better time. If nothing else, it would have sent signals to corrupt minded politicians that old things have passed away in INEC and that anyone who tries to bring back the days of barefaced robbery of the people’s wish will face the music and will never succeed.
We commend the INEC commissioner for the boldness to tell the truth to power. Interestingly, a few days ago, Alalibo had given same signals to the governor of the state, Prof Ben Ayade, during a courtesy visit on the governor. He had told the governor that there would be a level playing field for all players, as the 2023 elections get underway. He had equally pleaded with the governor to provide a peaceful atmosphere to enable INEC conduct a free, fair, peaceful election in the state.
What it means is that the REC is ready to do what is fair and just. While we commend him for his boldness and readiness to do what is right, we also urge all other electoral officers to do what is right, all the time.
INEC staff are the referees in the election processes. If they allow themselves to be compromised by power hungry politicians, then we would have returned to square one and the nation would suffer for it.
Government officials should give all the support and encouragements to INEC to enable them deliver on their mandate. But they should not attempt to do anything that will be seen to be inimical to a fair, transparent, just, peaceful election.
We also urge members of the public to help INEC as they prepare to midwife the next election. when the commission gets all the needed support, they will be able to conduct a credible election and bring on board men and women of character, who will be able to right the wrongs of the past years in Nigeria.
