As 2015 general elections is drawing nearer, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State on Sunday called for the removal of Dr. Emammuel Onucheyo, State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) over compromising and lagging in the discharge of his responsibilities.
The APC, in a statement by its spokesman in the State, said the conduct and carriage of the REC left more to be desired. His antecedents, especially in the management and conduct of elections in the past are not just suspect but inimical to the healthy growth of our democracy.
It said, “In Niger State it is sad that the REC, saddled with the constitutional responsibility of conducting elections – the most crucial aspect of democracy, has been found compromising and lagging in the discharge of his duties.”
“It is in the light of this that we call for his immediate removal from the state if we must salvage this hard earn democracy that we all cherish.
A stitch in time saves nine.”
Vatsa said,” INEC National Chairman has repeatedly assured Nigerians of a free and fair 2015 general elections in the country, we of APC in Niger State strongly believe that with Dr. Emmanuel Onucheyo as the state REC, Jega’s envisioned free and fair election will be a mirage in Niger state.”
“The continued retention of the REC whom has been found to be a card carrying member of PDP in Kogi State will be a disaster to democracy. He has been found to be an ever ready tool for rigging by the ruling party. This is evident from all the elections he has conducted in the state since his posting to the state. The last Niger East by-election was brazenly rigged with active connivance of the REC and some Security agents.”
According him,” APC in Niger State petitioned Professor Atahiru Jega, the National Chairman of INEC on the nefarious and dubious activities of the Niger State REC. We highlighted his romance with the ruling the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the illegal demand for funds under the disguise of organizing a Voter Education programme that never took place from the state government. But it is regretted that nothing is being done to this petition.”
As at the time of filling this report all efforts to get the REC Chairman, Niger State, Dr.Emmanuel Onucheyo to speak on issue proved abortive.
