Stakeholders Advocate for Full Autonomy of INEC to Strengthen Democracy
Stakeholders advocate for the complete autonomy of INEC to enhance Nigeria’s democracy and election credibility. Key speakers at a recent conference highlighted challenges, such as political interference and funding constraints, calling for legislative reforms and stronger political institutions to safeguard democratic practices.
Stakeholders have advocated for the full autonomy of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), emphasizing that its independence is essential for bolstering Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring the integrity of elections. This call was made during the Subnational Strengthening Democracy Conference in Kano, where political analysts and civil society leaders highlighted that political interference often jeopardizes INEC’s capability to conduct impartial elections.
The conference was hosted by the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA) in collaboration with several organizations, including the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development, the Centre for Democracy and Development, and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy. The theme of the conference was “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy – Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity.”
Abdullahi Sule, the keynote speaker and Director Program at the Youth and Environmental Development Association (YEDA), addressed challenges such as funding limitations and executive influence. He argued that granting INEC full financial and operational independence would foster public confidence in the electoral framework, stating, “INEC must have full control over its budget, appointments, and decision-making processes without external influence.”
Sule further emphasized the necessity of separating INEC from political control, insisting that the appointment procedures for INEC officials should be transparent and free from partisan interests. He urged the amendment of the Electoral Act and Constitution to address the issue of cross-carpeting by political officeholders, which undermines democratic integrity.
He asserted that mid-term party switching by politicians without seeking a new mandate from constituents destabilizes governance. He proposed that cross-party defection should automatically prompt a by-election or necessitate resignation.
Itia Otabor, the Director of Strategy at the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development, echoed the sentiment for bolstering institutions that safeguard democratic norms. He argued for reforms within Nigeria’s political party system, pointing out issues with weak institutions, poor internal party structures, and insufficient ideological coherence among political groups.
Otabor stated, “For democracy to thrive, institutions like the judiciary, electoral bodies, and anti-corruption agencies must be strengthened to function independently and effectively.” He also stressed that political parties require clear ideologies and strong internal structures to contribute positively to the democratic landscape, noting existing challenges in candidate selection and party discipline.
The call for INEC’s full autonomy by stakeholders, including Abdullahi Sule and Itia Otabor, underscores the critical need for an independent electoral body to ensure free and credible elections in Nigeria. Addressing issues of funding, political interference, and the need for legislative amendments are vital steps toward enhancing Nigeria’s democratic integrity. Strengthening political parties and institutions is equally essential for fostering a resilient democracy. These discussions highlight the urgent need for meaningful reforms to secure the future of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Original Source: www.nigeriainfo.fm
