In every democratic election, the foundation of transparency and credibility rests on the principle that voting takes place solely at the polling unit level. Each vote cast by the electorate originates from the unit level, and this is the only location where voters directly exercise their rights. Contrary to what some may believe, there are no voting centers at the ward, local government (LG), or state levels. These higher levels serve only as collation points, where the votes cast at various units are summed up and announced. This process is designed to ensure the integrity of the electoral system, with the unit results serving as the primary source of every figure reported at the ward, LG, and state levels.
Unfortunately, in the most recent election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) seems to have distorted this fundamental principle. Evidence suggests that figures reported at the LG level do not correspond to the unit-level results. This discrepancy points to what can only be described as an unprecedented and alarming practice: voting at the LG level. It raises serious questions about the authenticity of the results, as it implies that additional votes may have been manufactured at a higher level, undermining the entire electoral process.
To understand the gravity of this situation, it is important to remember that once voting at the unit is concluded, results are transmitted and collated up the chain. Any figure reported at the LG level should match exactly with the aggregate of the unit results. When the two sets of figures do not align, it indicates a breach of the process, as votes appear to have been fabricated or altered outside the polling units. This, regrettably, is what the APC must explain—how is it possible that the LG results reflect numbers that don't tally with those from the units?
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) now faces a daunting challenge. They are tasked with reconciling the official unit-level results with the inflated numbers presented at the LG level. The failure to do so exposes the electoral process to manipulation, damaging public trust in democracy. The judiciary, too, will play a critical role in this scenario. Ultimately, any ruling must be based on the legally recognized votes cast at the unit level, not on any artificial or manipulated figures conjured up at the LG level.
It is essential to reiterate that in any election, whether for the office of the president, governor, or any other position, there is no space for voting at the higher levels. Every candidate, including the president, returns to their unit to cast their vote. Collation at the ward, LG, or state levels exists only to compile the results from various units. The practice of voting at the LG level, as seen in this election, is not just irregular but outright unlawful. It is a mystery how and why the APC chose to employ such a method, and the burden of proof lies squarely on their shoulders.
In conclusion, the electoral process in Nigeria, like in any other democracy, rests on the principle that every vote cast at the unit level is SACROSANCT. Any manipulation at higher collation points threatens the entire system. The judiciary will, undoubtedly, have no choice but to base its judgment on the authentic results from the polling units, recognizing that any deviation at the LG level is a violation of the process. It is through adherence to these principles that Nigeria’s democracy will continue to evolve and maintain its legitimacy.
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