Stakeholders Advocate for INEC Autonomy to Strengthen Nigerian Democracy

Stakeholders at the Subnational Strengthening Democracy Conference in Kano emphasized the need for the full autonomy of INEC to ensure Nigeria’s democratic integrity. Key challenges identified include political interference, funding constraints, and executive influence. Calls for electoral reforms and the strengthening of democratic institutions were made to avert cross-carpeting among political officeholders and enhance party structures.

Stakeholders are advocating for the full autonomy of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), underscoring its significance in enhancing Nigeria’s democracy and facilitating free, fair, and credible elections. This demand was voiced during a high-level conference titled “Subnational Strengthening Democracy Conference” held in Kano, which featured political analysts and civil society leaders who expressed concerns over political interference undermining INEC’s impartiality.

The conference was hosted by the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA) in collaboration with the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development, Centre for Democracy and Development, and the Westminster Foundation for Democracy. The central theme revolved around “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy – Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity.”

Keynote speaker Abdullahi Sule emphasized that INEC faces challenges such as funding constraints and executive influence. He firmly insisted that granting INEC complete financial and operational independence would foster public trust in the electoral process. Sule articulated, “INEC must have full control over its budget, appointments, and decision-making processes without external influence.”

Sule also addressed concerns regarding executive control over INEC leadership, stating, “If we want credible elections, INEC must be free from political control. The appointment of INEC officials should be transparent and devoid of partisan interests.” He proposed that the government amend the Electoral Act and Constitution to address the issue of cross-carpeting by political officeholders, which he claimed undermines Nigeria’s democratic foundation.

He asserted that political party shifts mid-term, without a fresh mandate from the electorate, undermine governance accountability and stability. Sule proposed, “To strengthen our democracy, we must close the loopholes that allow elected officials to betray the trust of the people. Amendments are necessary so that any cross-party defection automatically triggers a by-election or resignation.”

Itia Otabor, the Director of Strategy at the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development, likewise advocated for the bolstering of institutions that uphold democratic principles. Otabor pinpointed weaknesses in institutions, inadequate internal party structures, and the absence of ideological consistency as problems inhibiting Nigeria’s democratic advancement. He stated, “For democracy to thrive, institutions like the judiciary, electoral bodies, and anti-corruption agencies must be strengthened to function independently and effectively.”

He elaborated on the necessity for political parties to operate based on clearly defined ideologies rather than serving solely as vessels for power. Otabor remarked that the frequent internal disputes within parties contribute to defections and electoral instability, warning, “Many parties in Nigeria lack strong internal democratic structures. Candidate selection processes are flawed, and party discipline is weak. If we must strengthen democracy, our parties must be well-organized and ideologically driven.”

In conclusion, stakeholders are unanimously advocating for the full autonomy of the Independent National Electoral Commission to eliminate political interference and enhance democratic integrity in Nigeria. The necessity for constitutional amendments regarding political party dynamics and institutional strengthening is evident. This collective effort aims to ensure the conduct of free, fair, and credible elections, essential for the resilience of Nigerian democracy.

Original Source: www.nigeriainfo.fm