The Nigerian Senate has called for the unbundling of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) with the aim of enhancing its efficiency and effectiveness in preparing and conducting elections.
The call was made at the Senate’s retreat held in Ikot Ikpene, Akwa-Ibom State, where it was also resolved to make electronic transmission of election results mandatory for the upcoming general elections in 2027. This decision includes the compulsory uploading of polling unit-level results and result sheets used at various levels of result collation.
A communiqué issued at the end of the retreat said, among other things, that “INEC should be unbundled to improve its efficiency and effectiveness in the preparation and conduct of elections”.
Regarding the utilization of technology in elections, the Senate emphasized the need to remove ambiguity in Section 64 of the EA22 and to make electronic result transmission mandatory from the 2027 general elections onwards. This move is expected to enhance transparency and reduce the scope for disputes in the electoral process.
The Senate’s retreat also addressed the issue of enabling Diaspora voting, particularly for presidential elections. This development is designed to allow citizens abroad, including those serving in essential capacities like the military, paramilitary, embassy staff, and other security personnel, to exercise their voting rights.
Furthermore, the Senate proposed that sanctions be stipulated for political parties that fail to submit their registers of party members within 30 days before the date of party primaries, congresses, or conventions. This action aims to enforce adherence to Section 77(3) of the EA22, which was reportedly violated by political parties during the 2023 elections without penalties.
In addition to electoral reforms, the Senate also addressed the pressing security challenges facing the country. The retreat participants emphasized the necessity of developing a comprehensive national security strategy tailored to Nigeria’s specific needs. Furthermore, the Senate called for the Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives to be included in security briefings provided to the President, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary involvement in security matters.
To address security concerns, the Senate recommended the promotion of community policing and engagement as a means to identify and prevent terrorist attacks. Collaboration with civil society organizations and local/traditional communities was also highlighted as an effective approach to addressing security issues.
Additionally, the communiqué called for the establishment of independent oversight mechanisms for the security sector. These mechanisms would be responsible for investigating allegations of abuse and corruption within security forces, ensuring accountability and adherence to the law.
The Senate’s retreat outcomes reflect a comprehensive approach to electoral and security reforms, aiming to strengthen the democratic processes and national security in Nigeria.
