Defects in electoral law marred 2023 polls, says EU observer mission

Offers 23 recommendations in six priority arrears

European Union Electoral Observer Mission (EU EOM) said shortcomings in electoral law and administration hindered smooth conduct of the 2023 general elections and damaged trust in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Chief Observer, Barry Andrews, while presenting final report of the EU EOM in Abuja, yesterday, said the mission also released 23 recommendations for consideration by Nigerian authorities, with a view to reforming six priority areas.

He said while Nigerians demonstrated commitment to democratic option, the electoral process exposed systemic weaknesses, signalling need for legal and operational reforms and enhancement of transparency, inclusiveness and accountability.

The Chief Observer said priority recommendations are: removing ambiguities in the law; establishing publicly accountable selection process for INEC staff; ensuring real-time publication of and access to election results; providing greater protection for media practitioners; addressing discrimination against women in politics; and preventing impunity regarding electoral offences.

The EU EOM said it observed deceit and misuse of the power of incumbency by governors, who tilted the playing field, leading to increased polarisation and divisive rhetoric based on ethnicity and religion.

The mission also observed over 1,000 pre-election court cases and more than 100 campaign-related incidents of violence, including assassinations.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government sought support of the EU in its quest to deepen and consolidate democratic practices.

Secretary to the Government (SGF) of the Federation, George Akume, made the appeal while receiving in audience the EU EOM delegation, led by Andrews, in his office.

While giving trajectory of Nigeria’s democratic development, the SGF said the nation has enjoyed considerable improvement over the years, even as he appealed for support to consolidate on gains since return to democratic rule.

He thanked the mission for participating in the 2023 elections across the country and emphasised importance of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

Andrews said in furtherance of the report, EU EOM will have a follow-up mission to Nigeria after two years, to engage authorities on implementation of the recommendations.

Also speaking, European Union Ambassador to Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Samuela Isopi, said the EU has been supportive of the nation’s return to democracy and has been working with INEC and other key stakeholders in bolstering democracy.

She added that the EU is ready to sustain its support towards deepening electoral processes and invest in key sectors of the Nigerian economy.