From Yahaya Abdulkareem
In the complex landscape of Nigerian politics, the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is crucial. At its helm is Professor Mahmood Yakubu, a figure who has stirred significant debate regarding his perceived biases in managing Nigeria’s electoral processes. The commission has faced significant scrutiny following the 2024 Edo State governorship election, which many observers have labelled as flawed. This election was seen as a critical test for Nigeria’s democratic processes, yet reports of irregularities and mismanagement have raised serious questions about INEC’s credibility and the overall electoral framework in the country.
With a background in academic administration, Yakubu, who was appointed as the chairman of INEC in November 2015, was expected to bring integrity and transparency to Nigeria’s electoral body. However, his tenure has been marred by controversies that have led many to question his impartiality.
Critics of Yakubu often cite several instances that they argue demonstrate a bias towards certain political parties or candidates. The most prominent criticism arose during the 2023 general elections, where accusations of irregularities and mishandled processes were rampant. Many observers noted discrepancies in the conduct of the elections, particularly in regions where opposition parties were strong.
- Rising cost of living worries parents as schools resume
- Former Miss Nigeria urges young girls to emulate Chidinma Adetshina
Opposition leaders and civil society organizations claimed that Yakubu’s INEC favored the ruling party, alleging that election materials were delayed in opposition strongholds while being swiftly delivered in areas dominated by the ruling party. Such actions have fueled perceptions of partiality and have led to calls for his resignation.
This same scenario played out in the September 21 governorship election in Edo state. Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), which monitored the Edo State governorship election, issued a damning review of the exercise, declaring that the results from several polling units were altered at coalition centres. The civil society coalition, the Situation Room, said the conduct of the election lacked credibility.
Yiaga Africa, one of the accredited observers of the Saturday’s off-cycle governorship election, discredited the election on account of widespread irregularities that included alteration of results by the collation officers. The CSOs called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review the results based on what was uploaded on the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal, within the time stipulated by section 65 of the Electoral Act 2022.
National Chairman of the leading opposition, PDP, Ambassador Iliya Damagum, said the Edo State governorship election was massively rigged, as the results released were different from the ones on the IReV portal.
This is shameful that despite the technology and resources made available to INEC, Yakubu could not conduct an off-cycle election that will be acceptable by all parties and stakeholders. This has eroded public trust and led to accusation of bias by the electorates.
The perception of bias in electoral management poses significant risks to Nigeria’s democracy. Trust in electoral institutions is fundamental for a healthy democratic process, and when that trust erodes, the consequences can be dire. Allegations of partiality not only undermine the legitimacy of the electoral process but also discourage voter participation, as citizens may feel their votes do not count.
Moreover, continued perceptions of bias could lead to increased tensions among political factions, potentially resulting in conflict. As Nigeria grapples with various socio-political challenges, maintaining stability through credible electoral processes is more crucial than ever.
Mahmood Yakubu’s leadership of INEC has been contentious, marked by allegations of bias that threaten the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes. Addressing these concerns will require concerted efforts to promote transparency, stakeholder engagement, and electoral reforms. The future of Nigerian democracy hinges on the ability of its electoral body to act impartially and restore public trust. As the country navigates its political landscape, the actions taken by Yakubu and INEC will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the path forward.
Yahaya writes from Gombe
