NDC Candidate Rejects Enugu North By-Election Result

The candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Enugu North Senatorial District by-election, Bishop Oscar Ossai, has rejected the outcome of the poll, alleging widespread irregularities and electoral malpractices. Ossai, a cleric-turned-politician, insists the election failed to reflect the genuine will of the people.

Allegations of Electoral Malpractices

In a statement issued on Monday, Ossai described the June 20 by-election as lacking credibility and transparency. He alleged that several polling units did not deploy or properly use the Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), while results were not electronically transmitted in some locations.

According to him, discrepancies emerged between figures announced at polling units and those collated at higher levels. He further accused party agents of engaging in vote buying and voter inducement, while citing incidents of intimidation, violence, and manipulation of electoral materials.

Questions on INEC Neutrality

Ossai also raised concerns about the neutrality of electoral officials. He claimed that some ad hoc staff deployed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a situation he said undermined the credibility of the process.

He argued that such irregularities cast doubt on the integrity of the election and questioned whether the declared results truly represented the choice of the electorate.

Legal Redress in View

The NDC candidate disclosed that his party had begun compiling evidence to challenge the outcome. He said the legal team was gathering witness testimonies, polling unit records, video footage, and other materials to present before appropriate authorities.

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“Our legal team and the party have commenced the collation of documentary evidence, witness accounts, polling unit records, video materials and other relevant information for presentation before appropriate legal and constitutional authorities,” Ossai stated.

Call for Investigations

Ossai expressed concern over reports of harassment and violence allegedly experienced by voters, party agents, and supporters during the election. He urged security agencies to investigate all incidents and prosecute those found culpable.

He also called on INEC, civil society organisations, and election observers to conduct a thorough review of the electoral process. According to him, such steps are necessary to strengthen public confidence in future elections.

Appeal for Calm

Despite rejecting the outcome, Ossai appealed to his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding. He emphasised that the NDC would pursue justice through peaceful and lawful means.

“We shall continue to pursue justice, fairness and the advancement of our people through peaceful and lawful means,” he said, while thanking voters for their support during the campaign and election period.

The Enugu North by-election was conducted to fill a vacant seat in the National Assembly. While INEC declared a winner, Ossai’s rejection of the result underscores ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s electoral system. Allegations of vote buying, technical lapses, and intimidation continue to raise questions about the credibility of elections.

Observers note that the dispute highlights the need for stronger enforcement of electoral laws, improved deployment of technology, and greater inclusivity in the process. As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, the concerns raised in Enugu North may serve as a reminder of the reforms still required to ensure transparency and fairness.