Breaking: Professor Urges President Tinubu To Lead Electoral Reform-Dialogue

Professor Dung Pam Sha, from the Department of Political Science at the University of Jos, has called on President Bola Tinubu to exhibit a commitment to electoral reform by initiating a presidential dialogue on elections in Nigeria. He made this appeal while speaking at a one-day Multi-stakeholders dialogue on rebuilding trust in the electoral process and election organized by EU-Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria in Kaduna….CONTINUE READING

Sha emphasized the need for the National Assembly to address ambiguities in the 2022 Electoral Act, particularly concerning pre-election matters, election petitions, results collation, and electronic transmission of results under Section 64. He expressed concern over various shortcomings in the electoral processes, including unreleased voter cards, multiple entries in voter registers despite claims of clean-up, and alleged manipulation by electoral officials and political parties.

The professor highlighted issues such as the recruitment of electoral personnel and the influence of incumbent governors in controlling party structures and imposing candidates, which he believes contribute to the manipulation of election processes. He also criticized the judiciary’s handling of electoral disputes, noting the dismissal of cases on technicalities and conflicting judgments.

Sha stressed the importance of rebuilding trust in the electoral process and institutions, suggesting measures such as strengthening the electoral legal framework, granting developmental autonomy to local government councils, and reforming State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) to align with national electoral laws.

Furthermore, he proposed enhancing the autonomy of Election Management Bodies, particularly advocating for reforms within the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure its political, administrative, and financial independence. Sha underscored the significance of these reforms in restoring hope, confidence, and trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.

Published By: Destiny.Jnr