Why We Rated Conduct Of 2019 Elections Poor – EU Observers

European Union observers have articulated reasons why they rated the 2019 General Election as poorly conducted saying that the arrest and prosecution of the Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Walter Onnoghen just before the election undermined judicial independence.

The EU Election Observer Mission presented its report and 30 point recommendation today at a press conference in Abuja.

Head of the EU Election Mission, Maria Arena while calling for more transparency on the part of INEC, said:

”Such reform needs political leadership that is dedicated to the rights of Nigerian citizens, and an inclusive process of national dialogue involving state institutions, parties, civil society and the media.”

“This needs to be urgently undertaken to allow time for debate, legislative changes and implementation well in advance of the next elections.”

“Overall, the EU EOM concluded the 2019 elections were marked by severe operational and transparency shortcomings, electoral security problems and low turnout.

“Positively, however, the elections were competitive, parties were able to campaign and civil society enhanced accountability.

The observer mission also affirmed that all parties were found wanting in perpetuating violence in their strongholds just as they flayed the abuse of state owned media by all levels of government that had control over them.

The EU EOM also flayed what they described as the poor timing of the

The Observers also knocked federal government for the poor timing and lack of due process in the prosecution of Chief Justice Onnoghen so close to the election saying it undermined the independence of the judiciary as an arm of government. Justice of Nigeria Walter Onnoghen so close to the elections.

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