Jibrin Okutepa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has faulted the conduct of the February 21, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council election.
In a statement posted on X on Monday, Okutepa said the outcome showed that the will of the people did not count.
He insisted that Nigerians did not truly determine who governs them.
‘Democracy Is in Danger’
Okutepa said democracy cannot operate as a “show of force,” urging that it must not rest on intimidation or arrogance.
The senior lawyer directly linked the FCT minister’s declaration of a work-free day on Friday, February 20, to what he described as irregularities on election day.
He alleged that movement restrictions discouraged voter participation.
“To call what happened on Saturday an election is completely an abuse of language,” he said.
He described the exercise as “democratic sabotage.” He also warned that Nigeria’s democracy is “on life support.”
Allegations of Irregularities
Okutepa alleged that results circulating on social media showed alterations on Form EC8A.
He said the mutilations and cancellations suggested vote manipulation and arbitrary additions.
Okutepa criticised some officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He said they failed to act decisively in some cases.
He described ballot stuffing, thumb-printing and result alteration as unconstitutional and unlawful.
Warning Ahead of 2027
Furthermore, Okutepa warned that the 2027 general election could face deeper crises if authorities fail to address current concerns.
He urged Nigerians to demand stronger safeguards for electoral integrity.
The senior advocate called for a review of manual collation processes. He insisted that votes with visible mutilations, cancellations or alterations must not count.
He also urged INEC leadership to cancel results where irregularities are established.
Criticism of Opposition
In addition, Okutepa accused the opposition of internal wrangling and disunity. He said their divisions have weakened their ability to challenge those in power.
He also criticised the lack of political education. According to him, political actors have impoverished citizens and now exploit poverty for electoral gain, urging Nigerians to demand credible elections and defend democratic institutions.
