Being Wike’s Cousin Doesn’t Preclude Me From INEC Role —Edo REC

Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo State, has responded to calls for his redeployment, defending his appointment and rejecting claims of potential bias due to his familial connection with Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Onuoha, who is a cousin of Wike, stated that his relationship with the minister does not disqualify him from serving as an official of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Tony Aziegbemi, the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, had recently called for Onuoha’s redeployment, expressing concerns about the REC’s impartiality in overseeing elections in the state. Aziegbemi cited Onuoha’s past role as a special adviser on lands when Wike was governor of Rivers State as a source of potential conflict of interest.

In response, INEC dismissed the calls for Onuoha’s removal, insisting that the focus should remain on the electoral process.

Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, Onuoha urged Nigerians to evaluate him based on his competency, character, and conscience, rather than his family ties.

“It is a fact that I am a cousin to the minister,” Onuoha acknowledged. “What we should be talking about at this time is capacity. Do you have the capacity to conduct the election? Are you competent enough?”

Onuoha highlighted his qualifications, noting that he is an associate professor of law and had previously served as an electoral commissioner in Rivers State, with no issues raised about his conduct at the time. He emphasized that his relationship with Wike should not preclude him from holding public office, and stressed the importance of focusing on his ability to manage the election effectively.

The REC also criticized the tendency of some politicians to make “wild allegations” when they realize that electoral officials will not cater to their interests, noting that no complaints were made when he was initially posted to Edo in 2023.

Onuoha concluded by reaffirming his commitment to delivering a free and fair election, urging Nigerians to focus on his competence rather than his familial connections.