Dr. Monday Ubani SAN, a respected Senior Advocate of Nigeria has commended the courage and integrity of a female returning officer, Prof Nnenna Oti, in Abia State whose refusal to compromise prevented what could have been a major electoral crisis.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News from 7:06, Dr. Ubani cited the Abia State incident as a critical example of how individual integrity can protect democratic processes, even in the face of intense pressure and potential inducements.
“You remember what happened in Abia State. If not for the returning officer, the woman that was in charge who said ‘no, I cannot be bought’, the electoral process in Abia State could have been compounded,” Dr. Ubani recalled, praising the official’s principled stance.
The senior advocate’s comments highlight the immense pressure that electoral officials face during Nigeria’s often contentious elections. Returning officers, who play crucial roles in announcing results at various levels, frequently find themselves targeted by political actors seeking to manipulate outcomes through bribery, intimidation, or both.
Dr. Ubani’s acknowledgment of this incident shows the importance of recruiting and protecting principled individuals within INEC’s ranks. While systemic reforms and technological improvements are essential, the human element remains critical to ensuring credible elections. See, More, Here>>>
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