INEC Canvases for Electoral Law Reforms to Improve Election Management

Oru Leonard

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has called for reforms to the electoral legal framework to address various challenges and contentions that have arisen in the conduct of elections in Nigeria. The commission made this known at a retreat with the Joint Committee of the National Assembly on Electoral Matters.

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made the call on Monday, April 28, 2025, during his opening remarks at a two-day retreat with the Joint Committee of the National Assembly on Electoral Matters, held at the Marriott Hotel, Lagos.

Yakubu highlighted the importance of retreats like this, noting that they allow for more focused and in-depth engagement than traditional public hearings. He recalled a similar retreat in March 2020, which significantly contributed to the repeal of the Electoral Act 2010 and the eventual enactment of the current Electoral Act 2022.

“For us in INEC, the collaboration between lawmakers, who are also seasoned politicians, and the Commission as the election management body is a positive force for electoral reform in Nigeria,” Yakubu said.

Proposals from INEC:

INEC is seeking to amend the Electoral Act to provide for more time between party primaries and the nomination of candidates, citing the need for adequate planning and logistics.

The commission proposes introducing early or special voting to cater for eligible voters on essential services, election personnel, and those in incarceration or diaspora.

INEC suggests establishing an Electoral Offences Commission to investigate and prosecute electoral offenses.

The commission proposes establishing a Political Party Regulatory Agency to regulate and monitor political parties.

On Constitutional Amendments; INEC seeks to amend the Constitution to provide for voting rights for inmates and Nigerians in the diaspora.

The commission proposes amending the Constitution to give INEC greater powers to appoint heads of State and FCT Offices.

Objectives include:

• Improve Election Management: The proposed reforms aim to improve the management of elections, enhance transparency and accountability, and reduce electoral disputes.
• Increase Voter Participation: The reforms seek to increase voter participation and inclusivity in the electoral process.

The National Assembly is expected to consider the proposed reforms and amendments to the Electoral Act and Constitution.

INEC and other stakeholders will engage in further discussions and consultations to finalize the reforms.

The proposed reforms have the potential to improve the electoral process and enhance the credibility of elections in Nigeria.