Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has voiced deep concerns about the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) apparent lack of urgency in reforming Nigeria’s electoral framework as the 2027 general elections draw closer. In a detailed statement shared on his X handle on Friday, Atiku emphasized the critical need for INEC to collaborate with the National Assembly to strengthen the nation’s electoral laws. He argued that such reforms are essential to ensuring credible, transparent, and inclusive elections that truly reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
Atiku’s remarks came on the heels of a significant meeting with a high-level delegation from the European Union (EU), led by Barry Andrews, a member of the European Parliament and the head of the EU’s 2023 Election Observation Mission to Nigeria. The delegation also included Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria. According to Atiku, the meeting served as a follow-up to assess the progress made on recommendations provided by the EU after observing Nigeria’s 2023 general elections. The discussions focused on the future of Nigeria’s electoral system and the steps needed to address the shortcomings identified during the last electoral cycle.
The former vice president stressed that credible elections are the cornerstone of Nigeria’s democracy. He noted that only through transparent and fair electoral processes can the country elect leaders capable of fostering unity and driving economic prosperity. “Expectations are high that INEC will urgently work with the National Assembly to provide citizens with election laws that guarantee transparent and credible elections, where every vote counts,” Atiku stated. He expressed disappointment, however, that nearly two years after the 2023 elections, there are still no clear signs of INEC’s commitment to implementing meaningful reforms.
Atiku’s concerns reflect broader anxieties among Nigerians about the state of the country’s electoral system. The 2023 general elections, while historic in their scale and participation, were marred by controversies, including allegations of voter suppression, logistical failures, and irregularities in the transmission of results. The EU Election Observation Mission, which monitored the polls, issued a comprehensive report highlighting several areas for improvement. These included the need for greater transparency in result collation, enhanced voter education, and the adoption of technology to streamline electoral processes. The EU’s recommendations also emphasized the importance of strengthening INEC’s independence and operational capacity to deliver free and fair elections.
The follow-up visit by the EU delegation underscores the international community’s continued interest in Nigeria’s democratic progress. Atiku noted that the discussions with the delegation were “broad-based” and centered on ensuring that the recommendations from 2023 are implemented before the next election cycle. He called on INEC to take proactive steps to address the identified gaps, warning that failure to do so could undermine public confidence in the electoral process. “It is worrisome that two years down the line, we are yet to see clear indications that INEC is committed to an improved electoral process,” he said.
Atiku also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at fostering genuine electoral reforms. He highlighted the role of civil society organizations, local election observers, and international bodies like the EU Election Observation Mission in pushing for a more robust electoral system. “We shall continue to support efforts by civil society organizations, local and foreign election observation missions, including the EU-EOM, that will lead to genuine electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections,” he pledged.
The former vice president’s call for reform comes at a pivotal moment for Nigeria, a country grappling with economic challenges, insecurity, and political polarization. Atiku argued that credible elections are not only essential for democratic stability but also for selecting leaders who can address these pressing issues. “We believe that only through credible elections can we safeguard our democracy and elect leaders who will ensure unity and economic prosperity for Nigeria,” he said.
Atiku’s critique of INEC’s pace of reform is likely to resonate with many Nigerians who have expressed frustration with the electoral body’s performance. INEC has faced criticism for its handling of past elections, particularly over issues such as delays in voter registration, malfunctioning technology, and allegations of bias. While the commission has made efforts to introduce innovations like the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), public trust in its ability to deliver transparent elections remains fragile.
The former vice president’s engagement with the EU delegation also signals the importance of international partnerships in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. The EU has been a key player in supporting electoral processes in Nigeria, providing technical assistance, funding, and observer missions to ensure compliance with global democratic standards. Atiku’s meeting with the delegation highlights the need for continued collaboration between Nigerian stakeholders and international partners to achieve meaningful electoral reforms.
As the 2027 elections approach, Atiku’s remarks serve as a clarion call for action. He urged INEC to prioritize reforms that will enhance the credibility of the electoral process, including the adoption of stronger legal frameworks and the use of technology to prevent fraud. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring that every vote counts, a principle that he believes is fundamental to democratic governance.
Civil society organizations and election observers have echoed Atiku’s concerns, calling for greater accountability from INEC and other stakeholders. Many have advocated for the passage of an amended Electoral Act that addresses the loopholes exposed during the 2023 elections. Such reforms, they argue, would strengthen INEC’s independence, improve voter access, and enhance the transparency of the electoral process.
Atiku’s statement also underscores the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy. With rising political tensions and growing public discontent, the need for a credible electoral system has never been more urgent. The former vice president’s advocacy for reform reflects a broader aspiration among Nigerians for a democracy that truly represents the will of the people.
In conclusion, Atiku Abubakar’s call for INEC to expedite electoral reforms highlights the critical importance of credible elections in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy. His engagement with the EU delegation and his public statements demonstrate a commitment to ensuring that the 2027 elections are free, fair, and transparent. As Nigeria navigates its complex political and economic landscape, the need for a robust electoral system cannot be overstated. Atiku’s message is clear: without meaningful reforms, Nigeria’s democracy risks losing the trust of its citizens and its ability to produce leaders capable of addressing the nation’s challenges. The onus now lies on INEC, the National Assembly, and other stakeholders to act swiftly to restore confidence in the electoral process and secure Nigeria’s democratic future.