The Labour Party (LP) has voiced serious concerns over the conduct of Saturday’s by-elections across 16 states, describing the process as a major setback to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
In a statement issued by Ken Asogwa, Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the Acting National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, the LP alleged widespread irregularities such as vote-buying, electoral violence, and poor transparency.
According to the party, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) failed to uphold acceptable democratic standards.
“What transpired across Nigeria in the name of by-elections amounted to a mockery of democracy. From Kaduna to Anambra, Ogun to Oyo and Kano, reports indicated incidents of vote-buying, voter intimidation, and logistical lapses,” the statement noted.
The LP warned that if urgent reforms are not implemented, the credibility of the 2027 general elections could be at risk.
“If INEC cannot conduct limited off-season elections with transparency and credibility, it raises serious concerns about its ability to manage a nationwide general election in 2027,” the party stated.
The party also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action in safeguarding the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“The credibility of our electoral system is fundamental to the stability of our democracy. It is imperative that the government addresses growing public concern about electoral transparency and security,” the LP added.
Although INEC has yet to respond to the allegations, the commission earlier described the by-elections as largely peaceful and successful, acknowledging only isolated incidents in some polling units.
What you should know
The Labour Party strongly criticized Saturday’s by-elections, citing irregularities such as vote-buying and voter intimidation.
The party warned that without urgent reforms, the credibility of the 2027 general elections could be jeopardized.
