SUNTV Global Channel
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his recent defence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that the President has assumed the role of the electoral body’s spokesperson.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily programme, Okonkwo argued that President Tinubu should not publicly declare INEC neutral while concerns over the conduct of the 2023 general elections remain unresolved.
According to him, Nigerians deserve greater transparency from the electoral commission, particularly regarding issues surrounding the 2023 elections, which he said continue to raise questions about the commission’s impartiality.
Okonkwo also expressed doubts about the Tinubu administration’s prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing insecurity and governance challenges. He further stated that the President should consider stepping aside rather than seeking another term in office.
The former Labour Party spokesperson also welcomed a recent Court of Appeal judgment that overturned an earlier decision directing INEC to deregister the ADC and four other political parties. He described the ruling as a victory for democratic opposition and accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to weaken opposition parties through legal processes.
His remarks come days after President Tinubu, while receiving members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) at the Presidential Villa, insisted that INEC remains neutral and has not intimidated any political party.
The President maintained that Nigeria’s electoral process is open to all political actors, dismissing allegations of bias and stating that opposition parties have equal opportunities to participate in the democratic process.
The Presidency has continued to reject claims that INEC is favouring the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that the electoral commission remains independent and impartial.
