Nigeria has struggled with electoral credibility since the restoration of democratic governance in 1999. Concerns over vote-buying, violence, logistical issues, and conduct of officials have persisted. The 2007 general elections severely damaged public confidence due to widespread irregularities and premature declarations. However, recent off-cycle governorship polls in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun states have shown that INEC can rebuild trust through meticulous planning, technology deployment, and stakeholder engagement.
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, recently faced a protest outside Chatham House in London, where he was engaging with stakeholders and addressing questions on INEC's operational readiness for the 2027 elections. He maintained a neutral stance on disputes between political parties and emphasized that INEC is an administrative umpire, not a court of law. This neutrality is crucial, given that over 300 pre-election suits are pending in court. Amupitan's efforts to overhaul the electoral architecture and engage Nigerians abroad have been commended.
INEC has taken steps to address credibility concerns, including disclosing that 54 staff members are facing disciplinary action for voter register manipulation offences. The Commission has also introduced transparent institutional reforms and engaged Nigerians abroad on the road to 2027. However, some Nigerians in the diaspora have been involved in protests against INEC, which may be seen as distractions from the Commission's serious work.
The recent off-cycle polls in Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun states demonstrate INEC's capacity to learn from past mistakes and apply those lessons operationally. In Anambra, INEC deployed 5,718 polling units, over 24,000 ad hoc staff, and 6,879 BVAS machines, achieving a 98.80% PVC collection rate. The Ekiti poll saw early groundwork, including engagement with stakeholders and a signed Peace Accord, yielding a largely peaceful exercise.
The Osun State governorship election on August 15, 2026, marked a significant milestone, as no defeated candidate or party filed a petition within the statutory 21-day window. This uncontested outcome speaks volumes about broad acceptance of the electoral process. These gains encourage, but the 2027 general elections will be a major test for Professor Amupitan and INEC.
INEC's progress in credibility and transparency is notable, but challenges persist. The Commission must continue to address concerns over vote-buying, violence, and logistical issues. Nigerians in the diaspora can contribute constructively by championing voter education, supporting civic sensitization campaigns, and encouraging peaceful participation among the electorate.
As INEC prepares for the 2027 general elections, the Commission must build on the lessons learned from recent off-cycle polls. By maintaining its commitment to transparency, credibility, and stakeholder engagement, INEC can continue to rebuild public trust and ensure that the electoral process reflects the popular will.
Key points
- INEC has made progress in credibility and transparency in recent off-cycle polls.
- The Commission must continue to address concerns over vote-buying, violence, and logistical issues.
- Nigerians in the diaspora can contribute constructively by championing voter education and supporting civic sensitization campaigns.
