Electoral Act Amendments Top Agenda for Nigerian Bar Association Amidst Growing Concerns Over Democratic Integrity and 2027 Election Preparations.
As Nigeria steadily approaches the 2027 general elections, the clamor for comprehensive electoral reform is intensifying, with key stakeholders emphasizing the need to strengthen the country's democratic processes. At the forefront of this advocacy is the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which has reiterated its call for amendments to Sections 47 and 60 of the Electoral Act 2022. The NBA's primary demand is to make the use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Result Viewing (IRV) portal mandatory legal requirements, thereby eliminating ambiguity and potential loopholes in election outcomes.
Experts argue that while BIVAS and IRV have significantly improved the transparency of recent elections, their full potential can only be unlocked if their application is unequivocally enshrined in law and consistently upheld by the judiciary. The current political discourse often highlights instances where judicial interpretations have, at times, led to outcomes that contradict the spirit of electoral transparency. This has fueled the argument that judicial reform is as critical as legislative amendments to ensure that the electoral system truly reflects the will of the people and fosters greater public trust in the democratic process.
Beyond the technical aspects of elections, the broader political landscape is also undergoing significant realignments and defections, raising questions about the resilience of Nigeria's democratic systems. Political pundits and civil society organizations are stressing the importance of a credible opposition that can offer viable governance alternatives rather than merely seeking power. This necessitates a more robust and ideologically coherent opposition capable of challenging the ruling party effectively and contributing to a healthier democratic environment.
Ultimately, Nigeria's journey towards a more robust and credible democratic future hinges on a multifaceted approach that includes not only a clear and enforceable electoral framework but also a judiciary committed to upholding democratic principles and a political class dedicated to genuine service. The ongoing debates and calls for reform indicate a growing national consciousness about the imperative of strengthening institutions and processes to ensure that the 2027 elections are a true reflection of the Nigerian people's choices.
I'm Adedayo Obadina
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