Assembly poll: What happened in Imo was a sham — Lawmaker
Imo Deputy Minority Leader and member representing Oguta State constituency under the People’s Democratic Party, Barr Frank Ugboma, has described the just-concluded Assembly election in the state as a sham.
Speaking to newsmen in Owerri, the Imo State capital on Friday, the lawmaker who contested the election for a second term bid said the alleged conduct of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in collaboration with the ruling party in the State and security agencies was barbaric, draconian and antiquated.
“My antecedents in the House earned me the trust of my political party, the PDP and as a result, I was nominated once more as their candidate for the 2023 State House of Assembly election which was held on the 18th of March, 2023.
“Unfortunately, the purported election was a sham as you all know and will agree with me that the conduct of INEC as the umpire in collaboration with the ruling party in the state and security agencies was barbaric, draconian, and antiquated.
“The purported result that was announced has sent me to the study room. I wish to announce to you that it is sad to note that we did not lose the election in a fair contest.
“As an opposition party in the state, our hope and trust lie in the figures of our untainted accredited voters, their votes and the tenacity of our spirit. Election does not define an individual, it defines society and the system. Every choice, action and inaction have consequences, positive or negative. I, in conjunction with the leadership of my party, the PDP will at the appropriate time make known to you our next step of action.”
He thanked those who voted for him while appreciating the right of choice of those who did not vote for him.