Yesterday, the opposition Labour Party (LP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were surprised by the U.S. 2023 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices, which stated that the 2023 elections in Nigeria reflected the will of the people, despite many irregularities. However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Presidency praised the report, emphasizing that they do not need external approval for their election wins.
The report, issued by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor, covered human rights issues and violations in various countries, including Nigeria. It mentioned that despite issues, the Nigerian elections seemed to represent the people’s choices.
The LP and PDP questioned the report’s conclusions, reaffirming their dedication to strengthening democracy in Nigeria and preventing a single-party state.
The report noted instances where APC supporters allegedly suppressed votes in areas with many Igbo voters during the March 2023 governorship election in Lagos.
Despite some reported voter suppression, vote-buying, and violence, many independent observers believed the elections generally reflected the will of the voters.
According to social media videos, APC supporters in Lagos intimidated voters, attacked journalists, and disrupted voting. The report added that the Nigerian police did not intervene in these incidents, and no one was arrested or charged.
Furthermore, the report criticized the Nigerian government for inconsistent enforcement of anti-corruption laws and noted widespread corruption, including the judiciary.
In response, PDP and LP officials emphasized their commitment to enhancing democracy in Nigeria, acknowledging the report’s recognition of election irregularities.
Meanwhile, the APC welcomed the report but reiterated that they do not require external validation of their electoral success. They expressed readiness to focus on the next general election and ongoing improvements to the electoral process.
Similarly, the Presidency dismissed the need for foreign validation, asserting that the election was conducted fairly and is now a matter of the past, with elected officials already in office and disputes settled by the courts.
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