Key stakeholders convened in Awka, Anambra State, on Thursday for a one-day dialogue organised by the International Press Centre (IPC) in collaboration with the European Union (EU), in a move to foster trust in Nigeria’s electoral system.
This multi-stakeholder forum aimed to address the urgent need to rebuild public trust in the electoral process, particularly in light of the significant voter apathy observed in recent elections.
The former Resident Electoral Commissioner with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC),Dr. Nkwachukwu Orji emphasised the necessity for INEC to revise its official appointment processes as a foundational step towards restoring confidence in electoral management.
Speaking during his presentation titled “Rebuilding Trust in the Electoral Processes and Institutions: Perspectives on Role of Key Stakeholders,” Dr. Orji lamented the noticeable decline in public faith in the electoral system since 1999, which he attributed to institutional failures.
“Trust is a critical component for electoral performance and democratic consolidation. If citizens withdraw from the electoral process due to mistrust, they inadvertently contribute to its failure,” he noted, urging civil society organisations (CSOs) to demand accountability from electoral institutions.
“Statistics show that trust has been built before, violated and now, we must focus on rebuilding trust, which must be done on the premise of delivery, engagement and integrity.
“CSOs must begin to demand from accountability from institutions and stakeholders in the election process.
“As a way forward, the election umpire, INEC, on its part, must review the process of appointment of its officials. A Commissioner, for example must be proved honourable, not just in title but in character.
“Political parties must also endeavour to complete all pre-election disputes before the conduct of elections,” he stated.
The IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, represented by Program Manager Stella Nwofia, reiterated the need for collective involvement in ensuring fair and credible elections. “Managing elections in Nigeria is a complex endeavor that cannot be undertaken by INEC alone,” Nwofia stated, highlighting the need for collaborative approaches from all sectors of society.
“Our collective aim is to gather insights from all geopolitical zones in Nigeria, focusing on the urgent need to rebuild trust and foster collaboration that will improve future elections especially following the complexities that arose during the 2023 general elections.
“As we embark on this initiative under Component 4: Support to Media of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria – Phase 2 (EUSDGN II), implemented by the International Press Centre alongside the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), we recognise that every stakeholder’s role in the electoral process is vital.
“This includes not only electoral bodies but also civil society organisations, traditional institutions, trade unions, umbrella media associations and bodies, journalists and other media professionals, etc. Each of these groups plays a crucial part in ensuring that our elections are fair and credible.
“Therefore this programme has been structured in such a way that in addition to the keynote presentation by Dr. Nwachukwu Orji from the University of Nigeria, we will hear from a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from INEC, the Police, the National Orientation Agency, and various civil society organizations and individuals here present.
“This diverse representation is vital because managing elections in Nigeria is a complex task that cannot be handled by INEC alone. Given our large population and the significant costs of conducting elections, a collaborative approach involving all sectors of society is essential.
“We also consider this dialogue as timely as we seek further reforms aimed at strengthening our electoral system through potential amendments to the Constitution and the Electoral Act (2022).
“Our discussions today can significantly influence policy reforms at national levels while empowering local stakeholders to effectively manage electoral processes. Moreover, fostering grassroots civic engagement will enhance public trust in our electoral system.
“I encourage everyone to seize this moment with earnestness. Your valuable insights and recommendations will be shared with the relevant authorities, fostering a wider conversation on enhancing our democratic processes. Together, we can spark meaningful change and restore integrity to our elections.
“As we engage in these discussions, let us remain committed to transparency and accountability. The road ahead may be challenging, but with collective effort and determination, we can indeed make a difference.”
INEC’s Anambra REC, Queen Elizabeth Agwu, reinforced this sentiment, urging stakeholders to exhibit sincerity of purpose for meaningful change. Likewise, Dr. Emeka Ononamadu, convener of the Nigeria Democracy Clinic, stressed that all election managers share responsibility for the integrity of the electoral process, dismissing the tendency to blame INEC for systemic flaws.
Attention was also drawn to security considerations, with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) represented by spokesperson Edwin Okadigbo, announcing proactive measures to ensure a secure atmosphere for upcoming elections.
The dialogue was marked by the contributions of various stakeholders, including security agencies, political party representatives, and civil society organisations.
Lateefah Ibrahim
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