Stakeholders at a Kano conference advocated for the full autonomy of INEC to enhance Nigeria’s democracy. Key issues identified included political interference, funding constraints, and the need for electoral reforms. Speakers emphasized the necessity of a truly independent electoral body and well-structured political parties to ensure free and credible elections.
A recent conference in Kano highlighted the need for full autonomy for Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance democracy and ensure credible elections. Stakeholders including political analysts and civil society leaders argued that INEC’s independence is vital for preventing political interference in its electoral processes. The conference was organized by the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa and other organizations, under the theme: “Strengthening Nigeria Democracy – Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity.”
The keynote speaker, Abdullahi Sule, emphasized that the challenges faced by INEC, including funding limitations and executive influence, can be addressed by granting it full financial and operational independence. Sule, who directs programs at the Youth and Environmental Development Association, asserted that INEC must exercise complete control over its budget and decision-making processes to gain public trust. He remarked, “INEC must have full control over its budget, appointments, and decision-making processes without external influence.”
Furthermore, Sule expressed concerns around the executive branch’s sway over INEC’s leadership. He insisted that, for credible elections, INEC needs to be free from political manipulation, advocating for transparent appointments devoid of partisan interests. He also suggested amending electoral laws to address the issue of political cross-carpeting, which he noted threatens democratic integrity and accountability. He stated, “To strengthen our democracy, we must close the loopholes that allow elected officials to betray the trust of the people. Amendments are necessary so that any cross-party defection automatically triggers a by-election or resignation.”
Itia Otabor, Director of Strategy at the African Centre For Leadership, Strategy & Development, echoed similar sentiments, calling for reforms within Nigeria’s political party system and the strengthening of democratic institutions. He pointed out that weak institutions and internal crises within political parties hinder democracy’s stability. He argued that strong institutions and ideologically sound political parties are essential for democracy to flourish: “For democracy to thrive, institutions like the judiciary, electoral bodies, and anti-corruption agencies must be strengthened to function independently and effectively. Likewise, political parties must operate on clear ideologies rather than being mere platforms for power struggles.”
Otabor concluded by emphasizing the importance of establishing well-structured parties that can maintain discipline and a clear ideological framework to prevent electoral instability and ensure democratic integrity.
The call for full autonomy of INEC is critical for enhancing Nigeria’s democratic processes. Key stakeholders have emphasized that independence from political interference, as well as reforms in electoral laws, is essential for credible elections. Strengthening institutions and political parties is also seen as imperative for the stability of democracy in Nigeria. Overall, these measures are foundational for restoring public trust and accountability in governance.
Original Source: www.nigeriainfo.fm
