Labour Party faults conduct of presidential election, assures ‘OBIdients’ of legal actions
The Labour Party (LP) has faulted the conduct of the presidential election held on Saturday February 25, 2023.
The election which earned the presidential candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Bola Ahmed Tinubu, victory was condemned by the leadership of the Labour Party, lamenting compromise by the country’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Many Nigerians, especially members of the opposition parties have expressed frustration about the manner in which the process was conducted.
They cited the shortcomings of technical elements that were used for the first time in a presidential election cycle.
In statement signed by Sen. Datti Baba-Ahmed, on Thursday March 2, 2023, the party assured Nigerians, the OBIdients, that legal actions would be initiated to reclaim the mandate.
The statement reads:
“On behalf of our Presidential Candidate, Mr Peter Obi, I address you all and indeed all Nigerians on the current situation in the country following the announcement of the purported result of the Presidential election held on Saturday February 25th 2023.
“First, let me sincerely thank all Nigerians for their belief in us and for coming out en-masse to vote for the Labour Party and for the cause they believe in- The birth of a New Nigeria. We are immensely grateful to the youths, obedients and all support groups including Nigerians in diaspora for their sacrifices, conduct and commitment to a better Nigeria.
“It is our position that the purported result did not meet the minimum criteria of a transparent, free and fair election. In addition to the most condemnable attacks, violence, voter intimidation and suppression, the election was conducted in clear violation of agreed and promised INEC rules and guidelines, the Electoral Act 2002 as amended, and indeed the Nigerian Constitution.
“As evident, the institutions of the State and leaders that were supposed to ensure the sanctity of the election, again and as in the past collaborated and colluded to subvert the will of the good people of Nigeria.
“Please be assured of our determination to fight the injustice that have been perpetrated on Nigerians through all legal and peaceful means.
“While painful, we implore you to please remain peaceful and calm. As our fight and determination for a New Nigeria is just beginning, we equally encourage you all to continue with the campaigns and vote massively for Labour Party in the forthcoming governorship and states house of Assembly election on Saturday 11th March 2023.
“Our Principal, His Excellency Mr Peter Obi will in due course speak to you all and indeed the Nation. Thank you all and God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
