Ahead of the 2027 General Elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, is pushing for significant reforms to its legal framework ahead of the 2027 general elections, focusing on expanding voting rights and enhancing technological aspects of the electoral process.
INEC outlined key amendments it deems crucial for improving the credibility and efficiency of future elections during a high-level retreat with the National Assembly in Lagos, .
Key Proposed Reforms:
Expanded Voting Rights:
INEC is advocating for constitutional amendments to allow for early, special, diaspora, and inmate voting. This would enable Nigerians living abroad, those in essential services, election personnel, and incarcerated individuals to participate in elections.
Technological Enhancements:
A major focus is on clarifying and strengthening the legal framework for the electronic transmission of election results. INEC aims to remove ambiguities in the current Electoral Act, ensuring a smoother and more transparent process.
Reviewing the design, printing, control, issuance, and use of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to improve security and efficiency.
Strengthening Electoral Integrity:
INEC is calling for the establishment of an independent Electoral Offences Commission and a Political Party Regulatory Agency. These bodies would address electoral malpractices and enhance oversight of political parties.
Clarifying INEC’s power to review election results, particularly in cases of proven irregularities.
Increased Representation:
Constitutional amendments are sought to introduce special seats for women and persons with disabilities in the National Assembly, promoting greater inclusivity in Nigerian politics.
Financial Autonomy:
INEC is pushing for a more stable and guaranteed funding regime, ensuring the timely release of necessary resources.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, emphasized the importance of these reforms, highlighting the success of the 2023 elections, which were conducted without logistical postponements, a first in recent electoral cycles. He attributed this success to previous amendments in the Electoral Act, which provided the commission with more time for planning.
Professor Yakubu urged the National Assembly to expedite the review process, allowing INEC sufficient time for implementation before the 2027 elections.
Professor Mohammed Kuna, presenting INEC’s submission, stressed that the proposed changes are based on observations from stakeholders and lessons learned from past elections. He highlighted the need to address ambiguities in the current laws and strengthen the commission’s operational independence.
The discussions underscore Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to improve its electoral process and build trust in its democratic institutions. The outcome of these proposed reforms will be closely watched both domestically and internationally.