The exclusion of Oworu's name from the list has sparked outrage among his supporters. One Twitter user questioned the situation, stating that "Wonders shall never end. Who started the narrative?" This development has raised questions about the transparency and fairness of the election process, particularly as Oworu's exclusion follows a violent attack against him and his supporters.
The incident last Thursday, during which Oworu and his supporters were attacked by suspected political thugs, highlights the security concerns surrounding the elections. The attack occurred at Bode Thomas Street Junction in Surulere, where Oworu was scheduled to hold a campaign rally. While it is unclear who was behind the attack, it raises concerns about the safety of candidates and their supporters during the election period.
The exclusion of Oworu's name from the final list of candidates also calls into question the role of INEC in ensuring a free and fair election. The transparency and accuracy of the electoral process are crucial for the credibility of the election outcomes. The exclusion of a candidate's name without a clear explanation raises concerns about the fairness of the process.
The upcoming state House of Assembly election in Lagos State is expected to be closely contested, particularly in Surelere 1 Constituency. The constituency has been a stronghold for the APC, with Desmond Elliot winning the seat in the 2019 elections. The exclusion of Oworu's name from the final list of candidates could have a significant impact on the election outcome, particularly as he is a popular Nollywood actor with a large following.
The controversy surrounding Oworu's exclusion highlights the need for increased transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The election period is a critical time for democracy, and it is essential that the process is fair and credible. The role of INEC in ensuring the transparency and accuracy of the electoral process is crucial, and any concerns or discrepancies should be addressed promptly to prevent the undermining of public confidence in the electoral system.
The exclusion of a candidate's name from the final list of candidates is not the first instance of irregularities and controversies surrounding the elections in Nigeria. In previous elections, there have been reports of vote rigging, violence, and electoral malpractice. These issues undermine the credibility of the electoral process and erode public confidence in the democratic system. It is crucial that steps are taken to address these challenges and ensure that the electoral process is transparent and fair.