Call for Nigerian Government to Unbundle INEC before 2027 Elections

Requesting improved efficiency ahead of the 2027 general elections, stakeholders in the electoral process are urging the Federal Government of Nigeria to unbundle the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

A communique released at the conclusion of the National Multi-Stakeholders Forum on Electoral Reform Priorities, organized by the Youth Electoral Reform Priorities group, highlights this call.

The stakeholders also emphasized the importance for the National Assembly to finalize the amendment of the Electoral Act and the review of the Constitution at least two years prior to the general election.

The goal is to ensure that all stakeholders and citizens grasp the modifications made to existing laws for effective implementation and adherence.

Expressing disappointment with the processes leading to the 2023 general elections, the stakeholders proposed the creation of a National Electoral Offenses Commission under the unbundled INEC with the authority to prosecute electoral offenders.

They also recommended the establishment of a non-partisan special election committee composed of individuals of outstanding integrity to take over the President’s role in appointing the Chairman of INEC as well as INEC National Commissioners and Resident Electoral Commissioners.

Organizations in attendance at the event included the Youth Electoral Reform Project, National Association of Nigerian Students, Nigerian Youths Parliament, various political party representatives, Inter-Party Advisory Council, and the Conference of United Political Parties.

Additional participants comprised the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Nigerian Labour Congress, Nigerian Bar Association, Christian Association of Nigeria, Jama’atu Nasril Islam, and Nigerian Medical Association.