The Labour Party (LP) has reiterated its call for the annulment of the 2023 Imo Governorship election results, as declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
At a media briefing in Abuja, LP’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, emphasized that their pursuit of justice is in the best interest of Imo State’s residents and the preservation of democracy.
Ifoh underscored the critical need for justice in Imo State’s governance, stating that the LP and its candidate, Senator Athan Achonu, have one final opportunity at the Supreme Court to correct the injustices faced by the electorate, who have been compelled to endure a government they did not elect.
He highlighted that Imo State had previously suffered from a controversial decision in 2020 that dramatically altered its political landscape, despite clear evidence of over-voting that should have invalidated the election.
The LP spokesperson argued that the 2023 election, like the one in 2020, was marred by over-voting and other electoral irregularities, which were overlooked by both the election tribunal and the appeal court.
He expressed concern that if such over-voting is allowed to stand, it could set a dangerous precedent, effectively making it an unwritten law in Imo State’s electoral processes.
Ifoh called on the Supreme Court to rectify this miscarriage of justice, noting that Imo State’s future development depends on adherence to the rule of law and public confidence in the judiciary. He emphasized that a fair resolution would not only restore faith in democracy but also pave the way for genuine progress in the state.
He also criticized the Buhari administration for failing to uphold electoral integrity, citing discrepancies in voter numbers and the total votes counted in the Imo election, which far exceeded the certified number of accredited voters.
The LP had provided evidence of electoral malpractice, including falsification of results, harassment of party agents, and vote-buying, but these issues were not adequately addressed by the courts.
Ifoh further condemned the obstacles faced by the petitioners in accessing crucial evidence, such as the BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System) devices, which were essential for proving their case. He noted that the limited access to only 30 BVAS units, out of over 4,000 requested, hampered their ability to present a comprehensive case.
The LP spokesman concluded by describing the last four and a half years under Governor Hope Uzodinma’s administration as disastrous, with escalating socio-economic crises, rampant criminality, and a decline in infrastructure.
He urged the Supreme Court to act decisively by cancelling the flawed election and ordering a new governorship election in Imo State, in order to restore public trust and uphold the integrity of the judicial system.