Poll Shift, Threat to Nigeria’s Democratic Existence – Sagay

A professor of Law and human rights activist, Prof. Itse Sagay, SAN, Monday, described the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) decision in postponing the elections billed for February 14 and 28 as a threat to Nigeria’s democratic existence.

Prof. Sagay expressed disapproval of the March 28 rescheduled presidential election,saying it is a very big disappointment.

He noted that when a group of people who feel that the election is not likely to favour them can put pressure on the constitutional established electoral process and manipulate democracy, the end result will not be very palatable for the country’s democratic system.

Prof. Sagay pointed out that it is also unfortunate that the credibility and independence of INEC is now in question, if it can succumb to this type of illegitimate pressure.

“Well, it is a very big disappointment because it is a threat to our democratic existence.

“When a group of people who feel that the election is not likely to favour them can put pressure on the constitutional established electoral process, what it means is that you are manipulating the whole electoral process, therefore manipulating democracy, and the end result will not be very palatable for our democratic system.

“It is also unfortunate that the credibility and independence of INEC is now in question, if it can succumb to this type of illegitimate pressure.”(Vanguard)