In a press statement signed by Executive Director Okechukwu Nwanguma, RULAAC urged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Nigeria Police Force, Enugu State Government, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and other relevant agencies to address complaints received from PDP members and supporters.
The complainants alleged that party members and supporters faced intimidation, arbitrary arrests, assault, and harassment before and during the by-election. They claimed the incidents disrupted political activities, prevented party agents and supporters from participating freely, and created an atmosphere of fear.
RULAAC said it has not independently verified all the allegations but stressed that the claims — including reports of injuries, assaults, and restrictions on political participation raise serious human rights concerns requiring prompt, impartial attention. The group noted reports that several persons sustained injuries during election-related violence and are still receiving medical treatment, while victims allegedly lack adequate support.
“Free, fair, peaceful and inclusive elections are indispensable to constitutional democracy,” RULAAC said, adding that every Nigerian is entitled to rights to life, dignity, liberty, and political participation under the Constitution.
The organization called on the PDP leadership to engage with complainants, establish facts, support affected members, and reaffirm commitment to democratic values. It urged the police and other security agencies to investigate allegations of arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and excessive force, and to remain politically neutral.
RULAAC also asked INEC to review the complaints: “The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should review all complaints relating to the conduct of the by-election, including allegations that violence and intimidation affected the ability of voters, party agents and election observers to participate freely. Where institutional weaknesses are identified, appropriate remedial measures should be taken to strengthen electoral integrity and public confidence in future elections.”
It called on the Enugu State Government to ensure no citizen faces violence or persecution over political affiliation and to cooperate with independent investigations.
The NHRC was urged to monitor, document, and investigate the allegations, support victims, and recommend reforms.
RULAAC stressed that where credible evidence of criminal offences exists, those responsible — including political actors, security personnel, or officials — must be investigated and prosecuted. “Democracy cannot flourish where citizens fear violence, intimidation or arbitrary arrest for exercising their political rights,” Nwanguma said. “Ending impunity for election-related violence is essential to safeguarding democracy.”