Grassroots Centre for Rights and Civic Orientation has expressed deep concerns over alleged irregularities in the ongoing recall process of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central Senatorial District.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Armsfree Ajanaku, the group acknowledges that while the right to recall is guaranteed under Section 69 of the 1999 Constitution and Section 113 of the Electoral Act, the process must be transparent and credible.
The Centre warned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to be vigilant against political manipulation and fraud that could undermine the legitimacy of the exercise.
The group accused some political actors of using misinformation, inducement, and forgery to collect recall signatures, citing reports of unsuspecting constituents being lured with palliatives only to later discover their signatures and biometric details were being recorded.
It also referenced online videos allegedly showing fake signatures being compiled in private locations.
Emphasising the importance of voter authenticity, Grassroots Centre reminded INEC of its own guidelines, which require that recall petitions be signed by at least half of registered voters in the constituency.
The Centre called for strict verification of all submitted signatures and urged INEC to involve media, civil society organizations, political parties, and security agencies in ensuring transparency.
The group further demanded that forged or falsified signatures be investigated and those responsible prosecuted to deter future electoral fraud.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting democratic integrity and called on INEC to uphold due process, fairness, and accountability in handling the recall process.
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