Toba Owojaiye Reporting
Lokoja, Kogi State, 12th December 2023
In a press release issued today, Senator Dino Melaye, the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State, has demanded the total cancellation of the Kogi governorship electoral process. The senator cited grave irregularities and a compromised electoral integrity allegedly orchestrated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Senator Melaye, a prominent figure within the PDP, highlighted significant flaws in 5 local government areas of Kogi Central senatorial district. According to him, elections did not take place in these areas, and accreditation was manually conducted with pre-prepared results sheets in possession before voting began.
Accusing INEC of obstructing the democratic process, Melaye pointed out instances where INEC officials claimed to have no result sheets in areas where the PDP had substantial support. Barrister Omoyemi Gold Olumudi, spokesperson for the Dino-Deen Governorship Campaign Council, expressed concern over the complicity of INEC officials and the involvement of youth corps members in perpetrating what they label as “grievous injustice.”
Compromised areas like Koton-Karfi and Lokoja were identified as susceptible to manipulation, exposing the audacity of those involved in electoral fraud. Melaye, calling for the cancellation of the electoral process, asserted that this step is crucial not only for the PDP and its supporters but also to uphold the integrity of the electoral system and ensure fair elections in Nigeria.
The Dino-Deen Governorship Campaign Council emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into these allegations, urging authorities to hold those responsible accountable. The campaign council sees this as essential to restore faith in the electoral system and create a level playing field for all political parties.
Senator Dino Melaye, known for his dedication to justice and transparency, remains committed to pushing for positive change in Kogi. The campaign council’s call for the cancellation of the electoral process underscores the importance of fair and just elections in shaping the future of democracy in Nigeria.
The press statement was signed by Barrister Omoyemi Gold Olumudi, Spokesperson, Dino-Deen Governorship Campaign Council