In a protest that evokes mysticism and ancestral spirits, Kogi Central women have taken to the streets to challenge the results of the senatorial election in their district.
The women, dressed in white ritual garments, were seen in the now viral photos sighted by MandyNews.com on Nigeria Tribune calling for justice from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The protest comes on the heels of a disputed election that saw Abubakar Sadiku-Ohere of the All Progressive Congress (APC) declared the winner of the February 25 election for Kogi Central Senatorial District. However, the candidate of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, rejected the results, citing irregularities in the process.
The women were seen performing a white ritual, a sacred rite that invokes the ancestral spirits of war against those who cheat or cause pain to the land. The significance of this ritual is not lost on those who are familiar with the cultural practices of the people of Kogi Central. It is a powerful statement of the resolve of these women to fight against any form of injustice.
The protest is an indication of the level of dissatisfaction and frustration felt by some members of the community over the conduct of the elections. The protesters are demanding that the INEC do justice to their votes and declare Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan as the senator-elect for Kogi Central Senatorial District.
Professor Rotimi Ajayi, the INEC Returning Officer for Kogi Central Senatorial District, announced the results of the election on Tuesday in Okene. However, the outcome of the election has been met with widespread criticism, with some accusing the APC of using illegal means to secure victory.
The protest by the Kogi Central women is a reflection of the growing discontent among some members of the community over the conduct of the elections. It highlights the need for electoral reforms that ensure that the will of the people is respected and upheld.