DEMOCRACY: Bribery, Corruption, and Flagrant Disregard for Law Destroy 2023 Elections

Sam Amadi, Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts and former Executive Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), in a scratching indictment, has accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the judiciary of perpetrating electoral fraud and undermining democracy in Nigeria.

In a blistering video statement, Amadi denounced the brazen bribery and corruption that marred the 2023 general election, declaring, “Bribe INEC, bribe the judiciary, and commandeered security – that’s the winning strategy in Nigeria’s elections!”

He lamented that this toxic combination has destroyed the electoral process, leaving democracy in tatters.

Amadi, a renowned expert in administrative law, expressed enrage at the judiciary’s failure to uphold the Electoral Act, stating, “When an agency makes rules based on law, those rules become law! You can’t just disregard them willy-nilly!”

He argued that INEC’s flagrant disregard for the Electoral Act and the judiciary’s failure to hold them accountable have created a toxic environment that undermines the very foundations of democracy.

“The rules were clear, and the electoral act isn’t perfect, but it’s very clear,” Amadi emphasized.

“I’m surprised that any judge who understands administrative law would argue that an internal regulation built on law and an act can be simply disregarded. INEC was totally wrong, and the courts – Supreme Court downwards – got it wrong!”

Amadi’s fiery critique has sparked widespread outrage and calls for urgent reform to salvage Nigeria’s electoral system.

As the country grapples with the fallout of the 2023 elections, Amadi’s words serve as a stark reminder of the need for accountability, transparency, and a commitment to upholding the rule of law.