Edo: ‘I Have Done Nothing Wrong’, Wike’s Cousin Anugbum Onuoha Challenges Political Parties
The situation involving Anugbum Onuoha, who is Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for the Edo State governorship election and also happens to be cousin to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has sparked significant controversy ahead of the election scheduled for September 21, 2024. Here’s an overview based on the information available up to September 20, 2024:
- Controversy Over Appointment: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vehemently opposed Onuoha’s role, citing potential bias due to his familial and political connections with Wike, who is now with the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the federal level. This connection led to accusations that Onuoha might favor the APC in the electoral process.
- INEC’s Stance: Despite these concerns, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has decided not to reassign Onuoha, emphasizing that the election’s integrity would be maintained through procedural transparency rather than personnel changes. INEC highlighted that the election’s outcome depends on processes at the polling units, not the REC’s office.
- Political Tensions: This situation has exacerbated political tensions in Edo State, with the PDP expressing fears of electoral manipulation. The PDP has gone as far as suggesting that without Onuoha’s removal, they might not trust the electoral process. On the other hand, Wike has publicly supported his cousin, challenging critics to prove misconduct.
- Public and Political Reactions: The controversy has led to a broader discourse on electoral integrity, the influence of political appointees in electoral processes, and the potential for nepotism in public office. The PDP’s refusal to sign a peace accord and statements about defending votes “with blood” underscore the heightened stakes and tensions.
- Onuoha’s Challenge: Onuoha’s stance, as reflected through Wike’s comments, seems to be one of challenging his detractors to provide evidence of wrongdoing rather than questioning his appointment based on relationships alone.
This scenario raises questions about the independence of electoral bodies, the transparency of political appointments, and how personal relationships can influence public trust in electoral processes. While Onuoha and INEC insist on procedural integrity, the political opposition’s skepticism reflects broader concerns about fairness and impartiality in electoral governance, especially when it comes to high-stakes regional elections like that of Edo State.
