RULAAC Demands Probe Into Alleged Violence, Human Rights Violations During Enugu North Senatorial By-Election

The Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) has called on the PDP leadership, INEC, the Police, Enugu State Government and the National Human Rights Commission to urgently investigate allegations of violence, intimidation and human rights abuses during the June 20, 2026 Enugu North Senatorial District by-election.

In a statement signed by Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC said it received complaints from PDP members and supporters alleging intimidation, arbitrary arrests, assaults and other forms of harassment before and during the election.

According to the complainants, the incidents disrupted lawful political activities, prevented party agents and supporters from participating freely, and created an atmosphere of fear.

RULAAC said it has not independently verified all the allegations. However, it noted that reports of injuries, arbitrary arrests and restrictions on political participation raise serious concerns that require prompt and impartial investigation.

The group expressed worry that many persons allegedly sustained injuries during election-related violence and that some are still receiving medical treatment. It added that victims and their families appear to have been left without adequate support, while those responsible have not been held accountable.

“Free, fair, peaceful and inclusive elections are indispensable to constitutional democracy. Every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation, is entitled to the rights guaranteed under the Constitution.”

The organization made specific calls to key institutions:

- PDP National Leadership: Engage with the complainants, establish the facts, provide support to affected members where necessary, and publicly reaffirm commitment to democratic values and protection of members’ rights.

- *Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies*: Investigate all allegations of arbitrary arrests, assault, intimidation and excessive use of force. RULAAC stressed that security agencies must remain politically neutral and not facilitate acts that undermine public confidence in elections.

- *INEC*: Review all complaints relating to the conduct of the by-election, including claims that violence and intimidation affected voters, party agents and observers. It urged the commission to take remedial measures to strengthen electoral integrity.

- Ensure no citizen is subjected to violence or persecution on account of political affiliation, and cooperate with independent investigations.

- *National Human Rights Commission*: Independently monitor, document and investigate the allegations, provide support to victims, and make recommendations for accountability and reforms.

RULAAC said where credible evidence of criminal offences exists, those responsible — whether political actors, security personnel, public officials or private individuals — must be investigated and prosecuted.

“Ending impunity for election-related violence is essential to safeguarding democracy and restoring public confidence in Nigeria's electoral process,” the group said.

*“Democracy cannot flourish in fear”*

The advocacy group reiterated that electoral competition must not become a licence for abuse.

“Democracy cannot flourish where citizens fear violence, intimidation or arbitrary arrest for exercising their political rights. State institutions entrusted with protecting citizens must never become instruments of political intimidation or repression,” Nwanguma said.

RULAAC said it remains committed to promoting peaceful democratic participation, strengthening the rule of law and protecting the fundamental rights of all Nigerians irrespective of political affiliation.