Why INEC is meeting early with CSOs
Laraba Raphael
Ahead of the 2023 general and presidential elections, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has resolved to commence early engagement with stakeholders in other to profer solutions on expanding voter access to polling units as a result of the review of the 2007, 2014 and 2019 general elections which was misunderstood by most Nigerians.
The electoral umpire has also decried what it described as it’s efforts to conduct credible elections as being politicised and misinterpreted.
The chairman of the Commission, Mahmood Yakubu, in his remarks during the first consultative meeting with civil society organisations,(CSOs) held in Abuja, stated that, “Learning from experience, the politicise dommission followed by discussion. We hope that by doing so, we will better communicate the Commission’s intention to Nigerians and invite input across the board on how to address this problem in the immediate term and hopefully establish the framework for future adjustments as the need arises, as is the case in virtually all democracies around the world. I am confident that by working together, we will make history by finally solving this 25-year old problem of expanding voter access to polling units in Nigeria.
“The Commission has deeply reflected on the matter. Our conclusion is that several factors are responsible for discouraging voter turnout among them inadequate voter and civic education, ineffective voter mobilisation, the fear of violence during elections, unfulfilled promises by elected officials and low public trust in state institutions.
“While the Commission will continue to work with CSOs and all stakeholders to address these challenges, we are also convinced that access to polling units is a critical factor in voter turnout during elections.
“Countries with higher percentages of voter turnout during elections also have adequate and convenient voting locations for eligible voters which are periodically adjusted to reflect increase in voter population.
“For the Commission, CSOs remain critical partners. We value your comments and observations on the conduct of elections and the democratic process in general. In your observation reports, you have consistently urged the Commission to address the issue of low voter turnout during elections in Nigeria.
“Many CSOs have worked with the Commission in the areas of voter and civic education. Together, we have also done a lot in the areas of electoral reform ranging from the review of the legal framework to the promotion of transparency and inclusivity in the electoral process.
“On your own, you have done a lot of advocacy to encourage greater participation of citizens, especially the marginalised and disadvantaged groups. I wish to reassure you that the Commission does not take your support for granted and will sustain the collaboration with CSOs in the best interest of our democracy.”
