INEC’s credibility is further undermined by the contentious November 11 elections in Kogi and Imo.

Off-season gubernatorial elections took place in three states of the federation on November 11, 2023. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had promised an enhanced, smooth, and transparent process. However, the aftermath of the November 11 polls in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states echoed the disappointments of the February 25 Presidential Election, where lofty assurances made by INEC turned out to be unfulfilled.

The electoral year of 2023 proved to be challenging for Nigeria. The February Presidential and National Assembly elections were marred by disruptions, impunity, and critical reports, making it arguably the worst in the country’s history. Public resentment towards INEC was justified, given the high expectations held by Nigerians. Despite efforts to ensure a fair election, including the use of technological devices, the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and a surge in voter registration, the actual implementation fell short.

The off-season election held on November 11 was anticipated as an opportunity for INEC to redeem its image. Promises were made to upload election results on INEC’s Result Viewing Portal, adhere to accreditation and results collation laws, and learn from previous mistakes. Unfortunately, the reality was quite different, with reports of electoral fraud, controversies, and alleged misconduct.

Concerns were raised about pre-written results, disruptions, and security agencies aiding in ballot box snatching. Allegations of INEC officials caught with pre-recorded result sheets added to the controversy. In Imo, videos circulated accusing security personnel of disrupting the voting process. Despite promises of improvement, the elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi were marked by irregularities and manipulation.

Several political parties, including the Action Alliance (AA), PDP, and SDP, rejected the results, citing fraudulent practices and a lack of transparency. Despite these objections, INEC declared winners in Imo and Kogi, leading to widespread criticism and loss of confidence in the electoral body.

Political analysts, like Dr. Emeka Nwosu, expressed disappointment in the conduct of the November 11 elections, calling it embarrassing and unacceptable. The lack of confidence in INEC, compounded by instances of irregularities, suggests a need for significant electoral reforms. Nwosu proposed a shift towards proportional representation to address the winner-takes-it-all syndrome and enhance the credibility of future elections.