Tthe Court of Appeal in Abuja criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its handling of the 2023 general elections.
The rebuke was part of the decision delivered by a three-member panel, declaring the election of Abubakar Suleiman from the Ningi Central Constituency of Ningi Local Government in the Bauchi State House of Assembly as inconclusive, prompting a rerun in 10 polling units.*
*During the delivery of the lead judgment, Justice Kenneth Amadi expressed embarrassment over INEC’s actions in favor of a party in an election dispute. He highlighted the disowning of documents by INEC, documents that the commission had not only issued but also duly certified. Justice Amadi likened INEC’s conduct to “dancing naked in the market,” emphasizing that the electoral umpire is expected to maintain a neutral stance in election litigations.*
*He reminded INEC of its crucial role in elections, emphasizing the need to be an unbiased umpire between parties. Justice Amadi called on INEC to cease irresponsible behavior, stressing that the commission’s duty to conduct elections directly impacts the peace and well-being of the country. He recommended that INEC’s role in election disputes should be limited to presenting all relevant documents used in an election and providing clear explanations of their purpose and acquisition.*
