Background

The long years of military dictatorship having destroyed both democratic institutions and democratic culture, Nigerian governments have been confronted with various electoral problems since the return to democractic government in 1999. Conduction of free and fair elections have been almost impossible as a result. Elections have also been typically followed by long and complex legal tussles because political parties and aspirants refused to accept defeat.

Past Reform and Achievements

The federal government set up a committee in 2007 to recommend electoral reforms. The efforts yielded the Amendment of the Electoral Act of 2010, and the amendment of the relevant sections of the 1999 Constitution. INEC’s financial independence was increased by linking its funding directly to the Consolidated Revenue Fund. INEC was insulated from partisanship with the requirement that its Chairperson be no card-carrying member of any political party. INEC may also now conduct elections earlier, six months before the expiration date of current occupier of the office, and thus give time for the settling of electoral disputes in the courts. More tribunals were additionally established, and the numbers of tribunal members reduced from five to three to hasten decisions on electoral disputes. These reform efforts culminated in the 2011 and 2015 elections, which have been adjudged to be the most credible and transparent elections conducted in Nigeria.

Challenges and Next Steps

Maintaining INEC’s developing good image should be prioritised. Voters’ database should be secured and made more credible. Strict enforcement of regulations guiding elections conduction should be continued. Project management difficulties in getting electoral materials to polling booths should be resolved.