The European Union (EU), has declared that the credibility of Nigeria’s future elections is hinged on urgent and needed reforms that place merit and neutrality at the heart of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
This was as it demanded for a transparent and robust system that ensures the real-time publication of polling unit and collation results in a way that would enable citizens to verify both paper and electronic records.
The Chief of Mission of the EU Election Observation Follow-up Mission, Barry Andrews, who stated the position of the body, emphasised that public confidence in the electoral process cannot be restored unless and until the appointment of the Chairman of INEC is strictly merit-based, and devoid of partisan interests.
Andrews also said that of the 23 recommendations submitted by the EU Observation Mission after the 2023 general elections, only one has been implemented.
He noted that six priority areas remain critical vis-a-viz safeguarding INEC’s independence, guaranteeing transparent results transmission, tackling electoral offences, strengthening freedom of expression, clarifying legal provisions, and increasing women’s political participation.
Andrews therefore warned that if Nigeria fails to conclude the needed reforms in the coming months, the country risks a repeat of the shortcomings that plagued the 2023 elections.
While welcoming ongoing legislative and constitutional review processes, the Chief of Mission of the EU Election Observation Follow-up Mission, emphasised that time was rapidly running out.
In his remarks, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, said the mission was not about dictating terms, but about offering support and advice, working with parliament and civil society to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic framework.
