Former electoral commissioner, Mr. Igini, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently address growing allegations of partisanship, warning that failure to do so could erode public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Describing the situation as “very regrettable,” Igini said the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process depends heavily on the perceived neutrality of election management institutions. He cautioned that any lingering doubts about impartiality could further weaken trust in democratic outcomes.
Speaking on broader concerns about Nigeria’s electoral system, he also drew attention to the increasing involvement of the judiciary in deciding electoral disputes.
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While acknowledging the courts’ constitutional role, he warned that over-reliance on judicial interpretation of election results could become problematic if not carefully managed.
According to him, perceived weaknesses or susceptibility to political influence within the justice system could undermine the rule of law and pose risks to democratic stability. He stressed that both electoral and judicial institutions must maintain strict independence to safeguard public trust.
Igini called for reforms and stronger institutional safeguards to ensure that elections are conducted transparently and that outcomes reflect the genuine will of voters. He further emphasized that restoring confidence in the system ahead of 2027 should be treated as a national priority.
As political preparations gradually intensify, his remarks add to ongoing debates about electoral integrity, institutional credibility, and the role of oversight bodies in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.