Prof. Attahiru Jega, a former head of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has responded to claims that the 2023 elections were tainted.
According to reports, Jega made the statement during a two-day Senate retreat in Ikot Ipene, Akwa Ibom State.
Jega was quoted as saying: “We have seen, in the 2023 elections, the damaging effect of how people in the corridors of power get their client or partisan nominees appointed without being thoroughly screened, and then they are influenced to compromise the integrity of elections.”
Reacting, Jega said the report was not a true reflection of his position.
A terse statement by his Senior Research Assistant, Princess Hamman-Obels, reads partly: “The attention of Prof. Attahiru Jega has been drawn to a misleading report published in a number of online newspapers quoting him to have commented that the 2023 elections were compromised.
“The report making the rounds is incorrect and not an accurate reflection of the presenter’s position.
“Professor Jega categorically denies making this particular comment about the 2023 polls.”