Ogoja, Cross River State – In a powerful and impassioned statement, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North, has denounced the recent local government elections in Cross River State, held on November 2, as a “farcical” exercise manipulated by the ruling APC-led government.
Calling the election process a mockery of democracy, Senator Jarigbe condemned the apparent manipulation designed to secure predetermined outcomes for APC candidates across the state.
“This wasn’t just an election; it was a spectacle to suppress true democratic choice,” Jarigbe remarked, emphasising that such practices threaten the democratic fabric of not only Cross River State but the entire country.
According to Jarigbe, this issue isn’t confined to Cross River; rather, it reflects a growing trend nationwide, where local elections are often controlled by state governments to the advantage of the ruling party, effectively disenfranchising voters.
Criticism of State Electoral Commissions
At the heart of the problem, Jarigbe argues, is the structure of the State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) that govern local elections. He criticised the flawed legal framework that gives governors significant control over the commissions, allowing them to appoint loyalists and undermine opposition.
“The law that empowers these state commissions is a bad law and must be changed,” he said, urging the National Assembly to amend this legislation and restore electoral integrity.
He noted the importance of aligning with recent Supreme Court rulings on local government financial autonomy. However, he warned that financial independence alone won’t guarantee true democracy if local elections remain in the hands of those with vested interests.
“He who pays the piper calls the tune,” Jarigbe stated, stressing that election conduct must be separated from the influence of state governments for genuine autonomy to be realised.
Calls for National Reform and International Concern
The senator’s remarks come amidst a national outcry against similar issues in states including Anambra, Plateau, Bauchi, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Kaduna, all of which have recently faced allegations of manipulation in local elections.
Jarigbe expressed concern that Nigeria’s democratic image is at stake, with international observers likely viewing these events with disappointment.
Additionally, Jarigbe condemned the heavy military presence at polling locations, describing it as an intimidating show of force that signalled a preference for power projection over democratic protection.
“Is this a prelude to what awaits us in 2027?” he questioned, warning that democracy should rely on the people’s will, not military might.
A Rallying Call to Cross Riverians
In closing, Senator Jarigbe encouraged the people of Cross River, particularly those in Cross River North, to continue with resilience, asserting that the recent election “did not reflect your choice or your voices.”
Expressing his party’s dedication to rebuilding the state, he assured citizens that the PDP remains committed to fair governance and continued advocacy for democratic integrity.
As Nigeria approaches a pivotal juncture, Jarigbe’s statement serves as a call to action for reforms that will safeguard the democratic process.
“Together, we will keep striving for a Nigeria where democracy is more than just a word, where every vote counts, and where true leadership answers to the people,” he concluded.
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