Osun: INEC’s Delay In Issuing Certificate Of Return Worrisome -By Festus Ogun

1. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet to issue a Certificate of Return to Mr. Ademola Adeleke, the Osun State governor-elect, three days after he was declared winner of the July 16th Governorship Election in Osun State.
2. The delay in issuing the certificate is becoming worrisome, in light of the tense political atmosphere and disturbing insinuations. This dangerous delay, in our respectful view, is capable of escalating political tension in Osun state, and beyond.
3. Section 72(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 empowers INEC to issue a certificate of return to Adeleke within 14 days after his declaration as winner. However, the statutory timeframe is not a justification for any needless and unjustifiable delay. INEC must be sensitive.
4. While Section 72(1) of Act gives INEC 14 days timeframe, it is reasonably expected of INEC to issue the certificate of return as soon as practicable and the commission need not wait till the expiration of 14 days; especially when public interest requires its timeous issuance.
5. Law is made for man and not man made for the law. To print, seal and execute a Certificate of Return should not take INEC these longer days. It can in fact be done within 24 hours. The will of the Osun people must not be subverted. May democracy continue to win!

Festus Ogun, Esq

Lagos