The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), has warned political parties against fielding individuals with criminal records, questionable credentials, or those who have previously failed the Nigerian people in positions of trust.
The pro-democracy organisation, in a statement today, jointly signed by its National President, Comrade ‘Yinka Folarin and National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Adewunmi Adesina, noted that it’s imperative that political parties refrain from recycling unpopular figures whose track records undermine public confidence in governance and democratic processes.
The statement reads, “CDHR expresses deep concern over the traditional trend of presenting candidates who lack integrity and credibility. We consider such actions not only eroding public trust but also risk breeding voter apathy and disinterest in the electoral process.
“Political parties are further urged to shun campaigns of calumny and instead present clear, issue-based manifestos to the electorate. Nigerians mustn’t be denied their democratic right to ask questions, scrutinise candidates, and make informed choices.
“While political parties retain the constitutional right to nominate candidates of their choice, this responsibility must be exercised with due diligence, transparency, and without undue monetary influence.”
The organisation also called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and other anti-corruption agencies to intensify scrutiny of outgoing governors and members of their cabinets who may have engaged in the looting of state resources.
“There are credible concerns that some of these individuals are seeking refuge in the National Assembly as a means of evading accountability. Reports also suggest that looted public funds are being laundered through proxies and capital flight, further depriving citizens of their collective wealth.
“CDHR charges citizens to speak out, evaluate the performance of their state governors, and be ready to expose cases of failure and looting of their common wealth.”
The EFCC and other anti-graft agencies must be prepared to track and prosecute all criminal conspirators, whether in the civil service or the private sector. CDHR is under no obligation to be economical with the truth; therefore, it remains committed to challenging any state governor or public office holder at any level suspected of looting the commonwealth.”
According to the CDHR, there must be no escape route for corrupt public officials. “Immunity mustn’t be abused as a shield for impunity, and there should be no selective justice, irrespective of political affiliation. All anti-graft agencies must rise to the occasion if the fight against corruption is to be taken seriously. Corruption mustn’t be handled with kid gloves.
Furthermore, CDHR charges its constituent branches and units across the country to remain vigilant and proactive by demanding accountability at all levels of government.
“We encourage the activation and full utilisation of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011, as a tool for transparency.
“The National Secretariat of CDHR is committed to engaging relevant institutions and, where necessary, deploying legal mechanisms to compel the release of information in accordance with the law.
“We urge members of the public to actively demand accountability from public office holders. It’s both a civic responsibility and a fundamental right of every citizen in a democratic society.
“The CDHR will continue to closely monitor political developments as they unfold, particularly at this critical period when political parties are commencing the process of candidate selection.
“Any attempt to undermine the will of the people will ultimately be counterproductive and detrimental to democratic governance.”
