The Coalition for Transparent Elections in Africa (CTEAN), an independent observer group, has declared that the recently concluded governorship election in Kogi State substantially adhered to Nigeria’s electoral laws.
Nelson Ogbu, the convener of the group, shared this conclusion during a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday.
The election results declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Usman Ododo, as the winner with 446,237 votes, surpassing his closest rival, Alhaji Muritala Yakubu-Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), who secured 259,052 votes.
Ogbu ststed, “We note with a sense of satisfaction that the election in Kogi was relatively peaceful, and the electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was alive to their duty.”
The CTEAN convener praised the Kogi electorate for their mature conduct, emphasizing that the election was widely considered free and fair. He extended appreciation to various security agencies, other observer groups, and Nigeria’s security organizations, including the Nigeria Police and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), for their professionalism.
Ogbu further commended the principal actors in the election and their supporters for their civil behavior during and after the voting process.
Highlighting the voting pattern, Ogbu expressed satisfaction that candidates demonstrated strength in their respective strongholds, indicating that INEC provided a level playing field for all political parties. He urged political actors to continue embracing peace, emphasizing the importance of unity in Kogi.
Ogbu emphasized the necessity of supporting the Governor-elect and called for unity among stakeholders. He stated, “The Governor-elect needs the support of all stakeholders to succeed. We believe in one Nigeria, and this can only be achieved when there is peace, love, and tranquility.”
Observer group gives verdict on Kogi election