Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Edo in the September 21 governorship election, has addressed criticisms from political parties regarding his relationship with Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Onuoha, who is Wike’s cousin, appeared in an interview on Channel’s Television on Friday, September 20, 2024, expressing confidence in his skills and ability to conduct a free and fair election in Edo State.

He urged political parties to dismiss allegations of favouritism and influence from his cousin Wike.

The Edo PDP chairman, Tony Aziegbemi, had called for Onuoha’s redeployment by the Independent Electoral Commission (INEC) due to his connection with the FCT Minister, citing doubts about his impartiality in overseeing the election.

In response, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC, Rotimi Oyekanmi, stated that the commission had no plans to redeploy Onuoha, advising the PDP to focus on the election itself rather than the REC.

Addressing the concerns, Onuoha emphasized that his relationship with Wike did not impact his role.

“It is a fact that I am a cousin to the minister. Before my appointment, I was invited by the Senate. It screened me, and I was confirmed. I was sworn in by Professor Mahmoud Yakubu, and posted to Edo.

“Since last year, nobody has complained that I am a cousin to the minister. Of course, I am a cousin to the minister. What we should be talking about at this time is the capacity to conduct the election.

“From my background, I am an Associate Professor of Law. People should now ask if I have done this job before. Yes, I was an electoral commissioner in Rivers State.

“Nobody has complained. I am coming from the university. I am not a politician. The mere fact that I am a cousin to Wike does not preclude me from being appointed.

“Am I not a Nigerian? Nigerians should have gone beyond this level,” he said.