Nigerian human rights lawyer, Femi Falana has warned that the 2023 elections might be sabotaged by “anti-democratic forces” if the attacks on facilities of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are not stopped.
Falana, who spoke in a statement titled ‘Halt official sabotage of 2023 general elections’, said that the violent attacks pose serious security threats to next year’s election.
“Unless the security forces are prepared to deal with the anti-democratic forces that are currently disrupting the democratic process the 2023 general elections may be sabotaged to the detriment of democracy and political stability in the country,” he said in the statement.
About 8 facilities of INEC across 6 states have been attacked over the past few months by people who are suspected to be arsonists.
Falana condemned the attacks on INEC offices in the country, noting that it’s becoming a dangerous trend.
The lawyer expressed concerns over how the facilities are being attacked without being tackled by security agencies.
“Even though the facilities (INEC) are said to be well guarded, the criminal elements involved in the nefarious activities generally operate without any challenge from security forces.
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“If the dangerous trend continues on a larger scale, INEC will not be in a position to conduct elections in the affected areas. It is, therefore, curious to note that the few suspected arsonists have not been charged before any court,” Mr. Falana added.
INEC has assured that the attack would not stop the commission from conducting a free, fair, and credible election.
