Trust Broken: Nigerians Declare INEC Unfit To Conduct A Fair Election In 2027

Trust Broken: Nigerians Declare INEC Unfit To Conduct A Fair Election In 2027

As the countdown to Nigeria’s 2027 elections begins, there is growing concern about the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Nigerians have expressed deep mistrust in the commission’s ability to deliver a transparent and fair poll,…Trust Broken: Nigerians Declare INEC Unfit To Conduct A Fair Election In 2027

particularly following the setbacks seen during recent off-cycle elections in Edo, Ondo, and other states.

The recent Ghanaian election, widely praised for its fairness and transparency, only heightened the disillusionment. INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, while observing the Ghanaian elections, lauded the country’s success and attributed their smooth electoral process to lessons learned from Nigeria. This comparison left many Nigerians skeptical, as they believe the commission has yet to overcome fundamental issues that continue to plague its performance.

A Call for Critical Reforms

Experts and political stakeholders are calling for immediate reforms to ensure INEC can deliver a free and fair election in 2027. They emphasize the need for INEC to gain true independence from political influence, as well as the implementation of effective electoral laws and technology. Several key suggestions include:

• Enhancing INEC’s independence: Politicians have long interfered with the electoral process, undermining the impartiality of the commission. Securing INEC’s autonomy from political pressure is seen as vital for a credible election.
• Stronger enforcement of electoral laws: There is a widespread belief that the failure to punish electoral offenders has perpetuated impunity. Experts urge the establishment of a special tribunal for swift prosecution of violators.
• Technology-driven reforms: The introduction of technology, such as the BVAS (Bimodal Voter Accreditation System), is seen as a step forward, but it must be further refined and fully integrated into the election process.

Voices of Concern

• Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress, pointed to Ghana’s electoral commission as a model, noting its true independence and efficiency. He called for critical reforms that would allow INEC to modernize and build public trust.
• Zik Gbemre, Coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition, stressed that the real challenge in Nigeria’s elections is not a lack of reforms, but the failure to enforce them. He believes that INEC’s attempts at transparency, like the use of IREV (INEC Results Viewing Portal), have been marred by allegations of result manipulation and vote-buying.
• Emmanuel Kuejubola, a public commentator, added that political interference remains a major roadblock to credible elections. He urged Nigerians to unite in their demand for free and fair elections, regardless of the political elite’s influence.

Political Interference Remains a Major Obstacle

Despite several efforts to improve the electoral system, INEC’s ability to operate free from political interference remains questionable. Several analysts, including Hon. Stephen Adewale and Comrade Ashaye Wasiu, believe that the ongoing political control over INEC’s leadership, funding, and operations makes it difficult for the commission to fulfill its mandate effectively.

Wasiu called for a reform of INEC’s appointment process, emphasizing the importance of transparency and professional, non-partisan selection procedures for the commission’s leadership.

Learning from Ghana: Can INEC Meet Expectations?

Many observers are turning to Ghana’s success as an example. Adekunle Ayoola of Nigeria Diaspora Europe highlighted the need for INEC to adopt Ghana’s approach to impartiality, transparency, and legal frameworks. This, he argued, could help Nigeria achieve a more credible electoral system. However, INEC’s current challenges, including bias, allegations of corruption, and security sector interference, need to be addressed before Nigerians can expect similar results.

In conclusion, while the road to a truly free and fair election in 2027 is uncertain, there is still hope that reforms can restore public confidence. Nigerians must demand change and push for an electoral process that upholds their rights and fosters democratic integrity.

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