Ene Obi Calls on Nigerians to Uphold Democracy and Ensure Electoral Transparency

Ene Obi, a prominent human rights advocate, has called upon Nigerians to take proactive steps to safeguard the integrity of their democratic process. She highlighted the significance of civic participation in ensuring that electoral outcomes are accurately recorded, particularly following the introduction of Nigeria's new Electoral Act, which has ignited discussions regarding the necessity for transparency and active citizen involvement in elections. Advocacy groups have cautioned that simply passing legislation does not guarantee that elections will be credible.

In a recent interview with ARISE NEWS, Obi underscored the importance of preparing both citizens and institutions for the effective implementation of the new electoral framework. "I hope the Gazette will be made available soon for everyone to access," she mentioned while discussing the need for public awareness of the law’s provisions.

Detailing the reach of the new Act, Obi explained, "The Amendment Act addresses regulations concerning elections at the federal, state, and local council levels within the federal capital territory."

As she spoke about the implications of the law for upcoming elections, she pointed out, "Elections have already been scheduled based on existing laws. We cannot overlook prior processes; adequate time is essential for training and understanding the new regulations embedded in the law."

When queried about the technicalities of vote transmission, Obi elaborated, "According to Section 60, subsection 1, the presiding officer must formally record the results at each polling unit in a manner stipulated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Furthermore, subsection 3 requires the electronic transmission of these results to the IREP portal, provided the official election results document is duly signed and stamped by the presiding officer."

She also stressed the necessity for trust in the electoral process, stating, "The preparations within INEC are critically important, especially given the time constraints as indicated by the Senate president. Every voter must have the confidence that their votes will be counted."

Reflecting on the role of civil society organizations, Obi expressed, "We are mobilizing our efforts diligently. We cannot remain silent; our voices must be heard regarding our dissatisfaction with certain developments."

In addition, she stated, "Civil society organisations have been overwhelmed. We require citizens to emerge and assert their presence in the electoral landscape."

She affirmed the need for citizens to embrace their responsibilities, saying, "Our mobilization includes political education, emphasizing that Nigerians must learn to have faith in their abilities. Citizenship is the highest office in the nation, as it holds the power to determine who leads."

Addressing immediate actions for voter engagement, Obi remarked, "With the law now allowing voter registration and card printing, many barriers have been lifted. This is a mixed blessing, and through political education, civil society can enhance efforts for voter awareness leading to the 2023 elections."

Preparations are underway for observing the elections, she mentioned, emphasizing that giving up hope is not an option, stating, "If we abandon hope, we relinquish our future."

In conclusion, Obi called for accountability, encouraging all Nigerians to aspire to be exemplary citizens, saying, "Be a Nigerian that your ancestors would be proud of. Conduct yourself with integrity and stand firm in your rights."