Enugu guber: HURIWA, group demand investigation into authenticity of NYSC certificates issued to public servants 

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) and the Patriotic Defenders of National Institutions have raised concerns about the integrity of the Nigerian certification process, pointing out deficiencies and inconsistencies in the Enugu Governorship Election Petition Tribunal’s recent judgment that upheld Mr Peter Mbah as the winner of the governorship election in Enugu.

They said the tribunal upholding Mbah’s election, despite allegations of forging the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate he presented to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), poses dangers not only for the NYSC, but also for other certifying bodies. 

Addressing journalists Sunday in Abuja, the National Coordinator of HURIWA, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said the matter is of utmost importance to the foundation of our nation’s democracy. 

He said that the tribunal’s decision, seemingly disregarding critical evidence presented by the NYSC, raises serious concerns about the credibility of our institutions and the rule of law.

He said: “We are deeply concerned about the recent judgment handed down by the Enugu State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal regarding Petition No.: EPT/EN/GOV/01/2023. This petition, filed by Chijioke Edeoga and the Labour Party, challenges the outcome of the gubernatorial election held on March 18, 2023, in Enugu State. 

“This case brings to light crucial issues surrounding the integrity of certification, justice, and the rule of law in Nigeria. The Enugu State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal’s decision has raised serious questions about the conduct of the tribunal, the credibility of our institutions, including the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the Department of State Security (DSS), the judiciary and the broader implications for the certification process in Nigeria.

“The tribunal swiftly dismissed allegations of NYSC certificate forgery against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Peter Mbah, and rejected the Labour Party’s claims of over-voting and bypassing the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). The tribunal’s conclusion was that Peter Mbah was legitimately elected as governor based on the majority of valid votes in the election.

“However, the Labour Party and its gubernatorial candidate are appealing this decision, firmly believing that justice was not served in this case. We are deeply troubled by the apparent decline in the integrity of our judiciary, where questionable rulings frequently emerge from our esteemed halls of justice.”

Furthermore, he said: “A central issue in this case revolves around the serious allegation of NYSC certificate forgery against Peter Mbah, the PDP candidate. This allegation gains weight through NYSC’s testimony as contained in a sworn affidavit in the Federal High Court case between Peter Mbah and the NYSC, which formed part of the evidence NYSC submitted to the tribunal in further proof that NYSC never issued any certificate to Mr. Mbah, let alone the purported certificate of National Service No. A808297 dated January 6, 2003, was not given due cognizance by the tribunal.

“The revelations from the NYSC is alleged to cast serious doubt on the authenticity of the NYSC certificate presented by Peter Mbah, raising significant questions about the eligibility of the governor for the gubernatorial race.

“Again, the implications of the tribunal’s judgment are deeply troubling. They undermine the integrity of the Nigerian certification process, not only for the NYSC but also for other certifying bodies. The tribunal’s decision, seemingly disregarding critical evidence presented by the NYSC, raises serious concerns about the credibility of our institutions and the rule of law.

“On the one hand, there is confusion surrounding the appearance of the Department of State Service (DSS) at the Enugu State Governorship Election Petitions Tribunal. The question arises: Why did the DSS appear at the tribunal? The DSS is not the issuing authority for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificates, and they are not typically involved in NYSC matters. Their unexpected presence at the tribunal has raised concerns and cast doubt on their role because it falls outside their usual mandate.”

Continuing, he said: “In light of the issues outlined above, HURIWA and Patriotic Defenders of National Institutions  firmly call for a thorough and impartial review of the Enugu State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal’s judgment to ensure that justice is served. The evidence presented by the NYSC and the allegations of certificate forgery warrant a comprehensive reexamination of the case.

“Furthermore, we demand a nationwide investigation into the authenticity of NYSC certificates issued to individuals holding public offices. The credibility of these certificates must be verified to maintain public trust and uphold certification integrity.

“In addition, the rule of law must be upheld without exception. The tribunal’s decision should align with established legal principles, and justice should be administered impartially. The judiciary must remain independent and free from bias.

“HURIWA and Patriotic Defenders of National Institutions emphasize the need for a thorough investigation into the allegations of over-voting and BVAS bypass during the election. Electoral integrity is paramount for democracy.

“In conclusion, we remain resolute in our commitment to defending human rights, upholding the rule of law, and protecting the integrity of our democratic institutions. We will closely monitor developments in this case and continue to advocate for transparency, accountability, and justice in our democracy.”