In the aftermath of the November 11, 2023 governorship election in Kogi State, Murtala Ajaka, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, has made allegations of election rigging in favor of Usman Ododo from the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ajaka expressed his skepticism about pursuing legal action, as he believed that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would defend the election’s outcome.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s The 2023 Verdict program which was closely monitored by The ECONOMIC TIMES, Ajaka expressed his disappointment and frustration, stating, “I have been around for the past 20 years. I know what it is. What am I going to court to do when the same INEC that did this is going to come as a witness to defend what they did? So it is a waste of time.
“He further emphasized the need for transparency and fairness in the electoral process, warning that if such issues persist, it could lead to anarchy in the country. Ajaka raised concerns about inflated figures, particularly in Okene Local Government, and accused INEC of accepting questionable results.
In the election results announced by INEC, Usman Ododo was declared the winner with 446,237 votes, defeating Murtala Ajaka, who received 259,052 votes. Dino Melaye of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured 46,362 votes. Ajaka’s allegations center around the integrity of the electoral process and the potential consequences of such issues on the future of elections in Nigeria.
