INEC for engaging with stakeholders to sustain Nigeria’s democracy” />
By Omeiza Ajayi
ABUJA – The European Union (EU) Election Observation Follow-up Mission has lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its proactive engagement with various stakeholders aimed at fortifying Nigeria’s democratic framework.
Barry Andrews, a Member of the European Parliament and head of the EU Mission during Nigeria’s 2023 general elections, expressed this commendation during a Thursday meeting with INEC officials in Abuja.
Andrews emphasized the necessity of ongoing reforms to reinforce democratic governance in Nigeria, applauding INEC’s dedication to enhancing electoral transparency through inclusive dialogue with key participants in the electoral process.
Meanwhile, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, appealed to the National Assembly to accelerate the review and enactment of electoral reforms, cautioning that any delays could jeopardize preparations for the 2027 general elections.
“Timely legislation is essential for our election planning. Ambiguity surrounding the legal framework as the election approaches could disrupt the Commission’s operations,” Yakubu remarked.
He clarified that out of the 23 recommendations issued by the EU Observation Mission in 2023, only eight pertain directly to INEC, with one marked as a priority. The other 15 recommendations, including five priority items, involve the executive branch, legislature, judiciary, political parties, civil society, media, and professional organizations.
Yakubu revealed that INEC has already initiated administrative measures to address its share of the recommendations and is collaborating with stakeholders on broader reforms pending legislative approval. He also highlighted that INEC’s internal post-election assessment of the 2023 polls produced 142 recommendations, complementing those from international observers.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to conducting credible elections, Yakubu announced plans to invite the EU, Commonwealth, African Union, and ECOWAS to observe the 2027 general elections.
He further praised the EU Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) initiative, committing to ongoing cooperation to strengthen electoral integrity.
“We are confident that the insights from your election observation and evaluation contribute significantly to enhancing the quality of our electoral processes,” Yakubu concluded.