A House of Representatives member, Amobi Ogah, has urged INEC to investigate alleged election result forgery by Nkiruka Onyejeocha. On Wednesday, Ogah released a statement accusing Minister Onyejeocha of manipulating polling unit results during the 2023 general elections.
Ogah represents Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in Abia State and raised concerns about irregularities in Onyejeocha’s election documents. He claimed the evidence included tampered result sheets and inconsistencies in voter numbers from Onyejeocha’s constituency. He demanded INEC launch a detailed, independent probe into the allegations.
“This is a blatant attempt to undermine the integrity of our democratic process,” Ogah said in his statement.
“As a representative of the people, I cannot stand idly by while such grave accusations go unaddressed.
I call on INEC to conduct a transparent and impartial investigation to restore public confidence in our elections.”
Minister Yet to Respond as Pressure Mounts.
Onyejeocha, now Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, has not responded to the serious allegations. President Bola Tinubu appointed her in August 2023, after her controversial election victory under the APC. She contested the Isiukwuato/Umunneochi federal seat, which Ogah now challenges based on alleged document forgery.
If INEC confirms the claims, her political future could face severe damage and broader election credibility questions may arise. Many Nigerians already doubt the fairness of the 2023 elections due to reports of irregularities and legal disputes nationwide. INEC, tasked with organizing elections, acknowledged Ogah’s petition and promised to review it under standard procedures.
“INEC takes all allegations of electoral malpractice seriously and will investigate any credible evidence presented,” a spokesperson said.
This controversy emerges as lawmakers debate reforms to tighten Nigeria’s electoral systems and prevent future fraud. Ogah, a Labour Party member, continues to advocate for accountability and challenges misconduct within the current government. His investigation call might increase political tension, as it targets a prominent figure in Tinubu’s administration.
Nigeria is still reeling from the 2023 election fallout, including court battles over disputed results across multiple states. This case could set an important precedent for resolving election disputes and holding powerful figures accountable. Civil society groups have joined calls for INEC to act transparently and protect democracy from further damage.
