THE IMPERATIVE TO FIX NIGERIA’S ELECTORAL SYSTEM

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general election, urgent attention is required to address the integrity of the electoral process. The 2023 election highlighted issues such as widespread vote manipulation, voter suppression, compromised technology, and legal ambiguity, leading to concerns about justice and fairness.

The current electoral system, as outlined in the Electoral Act 2022, gives the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) unchecked discretion, raising questions about neutrality. The lack of a functional Electoral Offences Commission also enables impunity for rigging and violence.

To improve the system for 2027, bold reforms are necessary, including mandating electronic accreditation and voting, enshrining electronic voting in the Constitution, and establishing an independent commission to appoint INEC leadership. Credible politicians, civil society, the media, youth, and religious leaders must come together to build a nationwide coalition for electoral reform to ensure a transparent and accountable system for sustainable development and true democracy.