A Pro Democracy group, Edo Rights Vanguard has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) and Inspector-General of Police, Egbetokun to investigate allegations of perjury and Dual Citizenship levelled against Edo Labour Party Governorship Candidate, Olumide Akpata and Deputy-Governorship Candidate, Mrs Oluyinka Alufokhai
Recently, a major online Newspaper, Sahara Reporters had exclusively reported that Olumide Akpata swore an Oath of Allegiance to Vanuatu – a small island country with a population of about 350,000 people. He was also alleged to have acquired the passport and citizenship of the South Pacific Ocean Nation.
The report further revealed official Documents showing that the Labour Party Deputy-Governorship Candidate, Mrs Oluyinka Alufokhai submitted fake information under oath to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the September 21st 2024 Elections in Edo State. The information seen on her form EC09 as submitted to INEC shows that she obtained her First School Leaving Certificate (FSLC) on 1981, the same year she was born.
In a Statement made available to newsmen by the group converners, Ambrose Osifo and Uyi Ikhator in Benin City, the group stated that it was imperative for INEC and the Police to investigate the allegations as it bothered on Eligibility issues and Perjury, which is a criminal offence
“As a non-partisan and non-profit Organisation, dedicated to the principles of transparency, accountability and integrity as necessary ingredients to maintain the sanctity of the electoral process, we use this medium to call on the Independent National Electoral Commission.(INEC) and Nigeria Police to use its good offices to order an immediate investigation into the said particulars submitted by the Labour Party Candidates.
Perjury, in Nigerian law, is a serious offense punishable under Section 118 of the Criminal Code Act. It involves knowingly making false statements while under oath or affirmation, either in court or in any official documents. Perjury undermines the integrity of the judicial system and our Political system.” The Statement reads.
They further maintained that integrity is crucial for those seeking public office because it forms the foundation of trust between elected officials and the public they serve. Without integrity, it’s challenging to make ethical decisions, uphold promises, and maintain transparency in governance.
The group also noted that investigations have become necessary given the allegations and seething controversy that trailed the Labour Party primaries in Edo State with allegations that the process was nothing short of a bazaar where the ticket was simply traded off to the highest bidder.
It is thus imperative that these allegations are thoroughly investigated and criminal prosecutions initiated where necessary.