A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) on Tuesday intensified calls for comprehensive electoral reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy. The coalition proposed sweeping changes to the nation’s electoral laws, emphasizing the need to eliminate partisan politicians from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The CSOs convened at a conference titled Setting the Agenda at Merit House, organized by the Civil Society Coalition for Sustainable Development, to discuss reforms, including the introduction of independent candidacy, the role of independent observers, and the immediate adoption of electronic transmission of election results.Key DemandsAmong their proposals was the removal of partisan politicians currently serving as INEC commissioners and officials.
The coalition argued that political neutrality within the electoral body is critical to curbing election rigging.Speaking at the event, Chief Peter Ameh, a former presidential candidate and past National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), emphasized the need for all elections to be conducted on the same day to minimize malpractice.“I urge a close examination of Sections 1, 132, 105, and 64 of the Constitution to address the feasibility of conducting all elections on the same day. This approach significantly reduces the chances of rigging and ensures efficiency,” Ameh stated.Drawing inspiration from Ghana’s Electoral Commission, he noted that transparent processes, such as declaring results at polling units, could enhance Nigeria’s elections. He also called for the unbundling of INEC, which he described as overburdened, and the establishment of an Electoral Offenses Commission as recommended by the Justice Uwais panel.Hon. Ben A. Etenabene, a first-term House of Representatives member from the Okpe/Sapele/Uvwie Federal Constituency, called for automatic forfeiture of seats by elected officials who defect from their parties. He further proposed installing CCTV cameras at polling units to monitor election activities and deter malpractice.Etenabene also suggested the creation of Election Agent Service Providers, independent entities to oversee elections alongside INEC, to enhance transparency and reduce manipulation.Similarly, Fred Agbedi, a Federal House of Representatives member from Bayelsa State, underscored the importance of inclusivity in discussions on electoral reforms. He urged political parties, especially the ruling party, to actively participate in such debates. Agbedi also cautioned Nigerians against accepting financial inducements during elections, stating that it compromises democracy and undermines accountability.
Former ActionAid Country Director Ene Obi criticized the lack of public outrage over critical government actions, such as the removal of fuel subsidies by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which led to a surge in fuel prices from ₦197 to ₦617 per liter.
She urged citizens to challenge policies that adversely affect their well-being.Dr. Moses Paul, convener of the Free Nigeria Movement, emphasized the importance of focusing on systemic issues rather than individual leaders.“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains Nigeria’s leader until 2027.
However, the challenges lie with those controlling the system—like Senate President Godswill Akpabio and others in power. They are the ones who need to be held accountable,” Dr. Paul remarked.He added “The issue isn’t the driver of the car but the mechanics, the engine, the tires, and the bolts. If these fail, the vehicle cannot move forward. Our attention must be on fixing the system to ensure Nigeria progresses.” Other speakers, including Dr. Sam Amadi, Mallam Idris Kalgo, Dr. Peter Piper, Amb. Dr. Young Piero, John Alphabet, and Chima Christian, called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s electoral system. They emphasized the need for reforms that ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusivity to address the nation’s lingering electoral challenges.The interactive conference concluded with a collective resolve to advance a citizens’ memorandum aimed at fostering a credible, transparent, and democratic electoral process for all Nigerians.
