The National Assembly of Nigeria has cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against failing to address electoral violations and court judgments, emphasizing that the credibility of the 2027 general elections depends on the enforcement of the law by all institutions and stakeholders. This warning was issued during a high-level engagement in Abuja, attended by INEC and other stakeholders, as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify. The engagement aimed to strengthen Nigeria's democracy and restore public confidence in the electoral process.
Chairman of the Senate Committee on INEC and Electoral Matters, Senator Simon Lalong, stressed the importance of continuous consultation among electoral stakeholders to improve the nation's electoral system. He noted that while the National Assembly is committed to providing the necessary legislative and institutional framework, credible elections require the collective effort of all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, security agencies, the media, civil society organizations, and voters. Lalong urged stakeholders to work together to ensure transparent, credible, and peaceful elections.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Hon. Adebayo Balogun, accused INEC of failing to take necessary decisions in some electoral matters, particularly those arising from constitutional and judicial provisions. He cited the controversy surrounding Section 225A of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and argued that INEC's alleged failure to act had contributed to the crisis. Balogun emphasized that INEC must exercise its powers and responsibilities, rather than avoiding difficult decisions, to ensure the credibility of the electoral process.
Balogun drew a parallel between INEC's inaction and state governors' reluctance to sign death warrants where legally required. He stressed that INEC, like other constitutional authorities, must take action when necessary. The lawmaker disclosed that the House Committee had written to INEC, demanding enforcement of a Supreme Court judgment relating to Section 74 of the Electoral Act. He expressed hope that INEC would act on the matter urgently to restore public confidence in the electoral process.
The intervention by the National Assembly committees comes at a critical stage in preparations for the 2027 general elections, with concerns mounting over enforcement of electoral laws, party compliance, judicial decisions, and political conduct. Lalong cautioned against viewing electoral credibility as the sole responsibility of INEC, arguing that the success or failure of an election ultimately rests on the collective conduct of every participant in the democratic process.
Lalong emphasized the vital role of the legislature in providing the legal and institutional framework for elections, while INEC must effectively implement the laws within its mandate. He also urged the media to provide accurate, balanced, and responsible coverage of the electoral process, highlighting its crucial role in strengthening public understanding, countering misinformation, and building confidence in democratic institutions.
The lawmakers' intervention has placed INEC's enforcement powers, compliance with judicial pronouncements, and institutional accountability at the centre of preparations for the 2027 elections. With political activities intensifying ahead of the polls, the lawmakers warned that electoral laws and court decisions must be translated into concrete action by institutions empowered to enforce them. The engagement provided a platform for the legislature and electoral stakeholders to address unresolved issues that could threaten the credibility of the 2027 elections if left unattended.
Key points
- The National Assembly has warned INEC against failing to address electoral violations and court judgments.
- The credibility of the 2027 general elections depends on the enforcement of the law by all institutions and stakeholders.
- The lawmakers emphasized the need for stronger institutional cooperation, strict adherence to electoral laws, and peaceful political engagement.
