The Chairman of the Association Electoral Committee (ASECO) of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Obiora Elochukwu, has explained why Emeka Chukwumalu was issued a Certificate of Return despite the Apapa election ending inconclusive at the Western Zone chapter elections last month.
Recall that the Western Zone election saw Emeka Chukwumalu and Femi Olawoore at loggerheads following allegations of vote padding and other irregularities, which led to the declaration of the election as inconclusive.
Despite this, ASECO proceeded to recognize Chukwumalu as the winner and issued him the Certificate of Return, sparking concerns among stakeholders.
But, speaking with our correspondent, ASECO Chairman; Elochukwu clarified that an inconclusive election does not necessarily mean a fresh election must be conducted, but rather that certain processes need to be completed.
He explained that when an election is declared inconclusive, it means that there are additional steps to be taken, either by addition or subtraction, to finalize the process. According to him, in this case, the election was neither canceled nor suspended, but rather completed through a combination of procedural resolution and peaceful reconciliation among the parties involved.
He further revealed that extensive consultations and meetings with key stakeholders led to a final agreement, paving the way for Chukwumalu’s certification.
He maintained that the process was not arbitrary, but was based on facts presented and agreements reached during these engagements. He added that while there were initial disagreements, the resolution was in the best interest of the association, ensuring unity and stability. He also dismissed speculations that Olawoore and his supporters outrightly rejected the outcome, stating that while some individuals were displeased, the broader consensus among stakeholders led to a peaceful resolution.
Commenting on the overall conduct of the election, Elochukwu insisted that despite isolated disputes, the elections across all zones were largely peaceful.
He noted that elections naturally come with different interests and expectations, but ANLCA was able to rise above personal ambitions to ensure a transparent and credible process. While acknowledging that there were minor disruptions, he maintained that these were either a result of human imperfection or deliberate attempts by certain individuals to influence the process.
However, he emphasized that the association remained focused on ensuring a free and fair elections, adding that apart from the Apapa chapter, all other elections were conducted smoothly without major issues.
On the lingering leadership dispute at the Airport Chapter, the ASECO Chairman stated that no directive had been received for fresh elections, given that the chapter remains under a legal dispute. He explained that according to ANLCA’s constitution, ASECO operates under the supervision of the board, and until any official directive is given, the status quo remains.
He further disclosed that based on an existing court judgment, the current leadership at the Airport Chapter remains recognized by the association.
According to him, unless there is a contrary directive from the board or a legal pronouncement that overturns the existing ruling, the chapter will continue under its present leadership.
While the decision to issue Chukwumalu a Certificate of Return continues to generate mixed reactions within ANLCA, ASECO maintains that due process was followed and that the move was necessary to ensure peace and stability within the association.
