At the centre of democratic governance lies a sacred trust—a delicate bond between the electorate and the institution in charge of overseeing how they make their choices. As an electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), presided over by Prof Mahmood Yakubu, is at a crossroads of history in the ongoing Edo State Governorship election. Together with the Edo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr Anugbum Onuoha, this very important institution wields immense power that can shape destinies and alter the fabric of society. In this pivotal moment, INEC must remember that its role is not to dictate outcomes, but to uphold the will of the people—a responsibility that bears the weight of justice and integrity. And, most importantly, the whole world is watching.
The world is watching. Every eye, whether near or distant, is fixed upon the unfolding of the electoral process in Edo State, hoping to witness the embodiment of democracy in its purest form. To subvert this process is to play with fire, to manipulate the very essence of governance that has been fought for through centuries of struggle and sacrifice. You have the authority to ensure that every vote counts, that every voice reverberates through the halls of power. To turn your back on this duty is to betray the principles that bind us in a democratic society.
You may find the temptations of manipulation whispering in your ear. The allure of shaping an outcome that may serve a certain agenda can appear enticing, yet INEC, you are condemned to reflect on the long-term consequences of such actions. The path of deception breeds discontent, undermines trust, and sows the seeds of division among the people you are meant to serve. Once the integrity of the electoral process is tainted, it becomes nearly impossible to regain the faith of the populace. This is not merely a question of legality; it is a matter of morality.
This abhorrent and despicable philosophy of “power is not served a la carte but you must snatch it, grab it and run with it” in a democratic setting is purely satanic. It legitimizes all that is negative and inimical to the noble ideals of democracy that seeks to enthrone the will and choice of the majority in a free, fair and credible manner. Avoid it.
INEC, the world is watching.
In Etsako East, you accredited 213 voters out of 493 registered voters, then recorded 406 votes in Osholo Primary School, Weppa Ward, Etsako East. (Unit 09). In Akoko-Edo, on a day the rain fell so heavily, you recorded 858 registered voters, accredited 858 voters, used 858 papers with 810 valid papers and a party (All Progressives Congress (APC), scored 800. Some things should not be done, INEC.
These brazen manipulations do not augur well for democracy.
The enduring consequences are a fractured society. Are you prepared to bear the burden of such a legacy? This is your moment to choose otherwise. Choose integrity and transparency. Stand firm in the face of pressure and remain unyielding in your commitment to impartially adjudicate the electoral landscape in Edo State. The people have placed their faith in your hands; honor that faith by ensuring that their voices are heard, their choices respected, and their wishes fulfilled. The right path may be fraught with challenges, but it is one that cultivates respect and fortifies the foundations of our democratic ideals.
Remember, you are not just an umpire; you are a steward of democracy. In this capacity, strive to amplify the voices of ordinary citizens rather than silencing them. Let your decisions reflect the true sentiment of the electorate, inherently believing that a government of the people, by the people, and for the people is worth preserving and protecting. The world is watching.
• Alao, a public affairs analyst, writes .from Lagos