Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has described the forthcoming Anambra governorship election as a defining moment for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to prove that it has turned a new page in the conduct of credible elections. Atiku stated this while addressing journalists shortly after meeting PDP stakeholders, including Hon. Amupitan, in Abuja on Sunday.
Atiku Abubakar emphasized that Nigerians are watching closely to see whether INEC can deliver a truly transparent, free, and fair election without manipulation, intimidation, or logistical lapses. He said that after the controversies surrounding past polls, especially the 2023 general elections, the Anambra governorship election offers the Commission “a golden opportunity to restore public confidence and rebuild the nation’s democratic integrity.”
Atiku Abubakar noted that electoral credibility is the foundation of national stability and public trust. He appealed to INEC to ensure full deployment of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and real-time transmission of results from polling units. According to him, such transparency will not only silence critics but also prove that Nigeria’s democracy is truly evolving beyond political interference and corruption.
Atiku Abubakar Warns Against Compromising Democratic Process
Atiku Abubakar further warned that any attempt by INEC officials or political actors to manipulate the outcome of the Anambra election would not only discredit the Commission but also erode Nigeria’s democratic gains. He reminded electoral officers that history would judge them harshly if they fail to act with honor and neutrality. “INEC must not compromise this moment,” Atiku said. “This election is a mirror of Nigeria’s democratic soul.”
Atiku stressed that the people of Anambra deserve the right to freely choose their leader without intimidation or inducement. He urged political parties, security agencies, and observers to act responsibly and protect the sanctity of the ballot. “Democracy cannot thrive when elections become a theatre of fraud and violence,” he added, noting that every credible election strengthens the nation’s unity and international image.
Atiku called on youth voters and civil society organizations to participate actively in monitoring the poll. He said vigilance remains the citizens’ most powerful tool against electoral malpractice. He also advised INEC to maintain open communication channels with the media and stakeholders before, during, and after the election to ensure transparency and accountability at every stage.
Atiku Abubakar Calls for National Rebirth Through Electoral Reforms
Atiku Abubakar reiterated that Nigeria’s progress depends largely on the credibility of its electoral system. He said that INEC’s performance in the Anambra election would serve as a benchmark for future polls in other states. “If we get it right in Anambra, we can get it right everywhere,” Atiku stated, urging the Commission to demonstrate that lessons have been learned from past shortcomings.
Atiku told Hon. Amupitan that a successful and transparent Anambra poll would send a powerful message to the international community that Nigeria is capable of reforming its democratic process from within. He urged all political actors to put national interest above personal ambition, saying, “Nigeria’s democracy must not die under the weight of desperation and impunity.”
Atiku concluded that INEC’s credibility is the bedrock of Nigeria’s democratic future. “This election is not just about Anambra,” he said. “It is about the soul of our democracy. INEC must prove to Nigerians that the days of rigging, bias, and voter suppression are over. The world is watching, and history will remember.”
Table of Contents
Discover more from OGM News NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
