A former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Attahiru Jega, has advocated for a fundamental change in the way the chairman and National Commissioners of the electoral body are appointed, suggesting that presidents should no longer have the constitutional authority to make these appointments.
In pursuit of this and other necessary reforms to enhance Nigeria’s electoral system, Jega has proposed amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act. While acknowledging that the current version of the electoral act represents a significant improvement in Nigeria’s electoral history, Jega emphasized the need for further adjustments to eliminate uncertainties, provide clarity, and fortify certain sections.
Jega shared these recommendations during a two-day retreat organized for senators by the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State.
He stated, “A review of the appointment process for INEC is essential, particularly to reduce or eliminate the President’s influence in appointing the Chairman and National Commissioners of INEC, aiming to liberate the commission from the negative perception that the one who holds the purse strings dictates the outcome.”
Furthermore, Jega underscored that the proposed amendments should mandate the electronic transmission of election results starting from the next general elections scheduled for 2027. He also proposed a revision of the law to ensure that all election-related disputes are resolved before the date of the swearing-in of elected officials.
He noted, “By amending the Act early in the upcoming electoral cycle, INEC would have ample time to prepare for this change,” in reference to section 64 of the Electoral Act, which grants the electoral body the authority to determine the method of transmitting election results.
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