The candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the Enugu North Senatorial District by-election, Bishop Oscar Ossai, has rejected the outcome of the poll, alleging widespread irregularities and electoral malpractice during the exercise.
In a statement issued on Monday, Ossai described the election as lacking credibility, transparency, and fairness, insisting that the process did not reflect the true will of the electorate.
The NDC candidate alleged that the election was marred by BVAS-related issues, failure to electronically transmit results in some polling units, discrepancies in collation figures, vote buying, voter intimidation, and other electoral infractions.
He further claimed that some ad hoc electoral officials deployed for the exercise were affiliated with the ruling party, raising concerns about the neutrality of the process.
According to Ossai, the reported irregularities have cast doubt on the integrity of the election and the legitimacy of the declared outcome.
The cleric-turned-politician disclosed that his party has commenced the collection of evidence, including polling unit records, witness statements, and video materials, with a view to seeking legal redress through the appropriate channels.
He also called on security agencies to investigate allegations of voter harassment and electoral misconduct and urged electoral stakeholders to review the conduct of the election to strengthen public confidence in future polls.
Despite rejecting the results, Ossai appealed to his supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding while pursuing justice through lawful means.
The Enugu North Senatorial District by-election was conducted to fill a vacant seat in the National Assembly, with candidates from several political parties participating in the contest.
