In a significant development, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) announced on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle that the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a stern notice against Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The court’s warning is clear: should Professor Yakubu fail to take decisive action against electoral offenders implicated in the 2023 general elections, he could face serious legal repercussions.
According to the notice, Professor Yakubu risks being held “guilty of contempt of court” and may be “liable to imprisonment” for not complying with directives to address and prosecute those who violated electoral laws. This landmark move underscores growing frustration over perceived inadequacies in enforcing electoral integrity in Nigeria, where election-related offenses often go unpunished.
SERAP, a prominent watchdog advocating for transparency and accountability in Nigeria, has long championed the fight against electoral misconduct. In recent months, the organization has increased its calls for strict enforcement of electoral laws, emphasizing the importance of holding offenders accountable as a means to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
The statement issued by SERAP underscores the weight of judicial involvement in ensuring INEC’s responsibility to uphold the law. By demanding justice for electoral irregularities, SERAP aims to send a powerful message to both voters and elected officials: that the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process is paramount and that violations will no longer be tolerated.
As Nigerians await a response from INEC, many hope this action will mark a turning point in election transparency, fairness, and accountability across the nation.
PIONEER NEWS 