By Joy Omagha Idam
Ahead of the 2027 general elections in Nigeria, the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA) has demanded amendments to the Electoral Act 2022, mandating the electronic transmission of results from polling units to the national collation centre in Abuja. This call was made when PAACA collaborated with the Nigeria Union of Journalists NUJ FCT Council to train over 50 journalists, in readiness for the 2027 general election in Nigeria.
PAACA’s Executive Director, Chief Ezenwa Nwagwu, emphasized the need for direct electronic transmission of results to enhance transparency and credibility. The civil society organisation believes this will help prevent manipulation and ensure accurate results.
The group also called for urgent amendments to empower the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to regulate the cost of nomination forms charged by political parties. PAACA argued that the current practice of allowing parties to fix arbitrary fees is undemocratic and shuts out young people, women, and persons with disabilities from the political space.
PAACA proposed a broad-based selection committee for INEC appointments, incorporating representation from civil society, the judiciary, and the National Assembly. The group also recommended that INEC’s funds be a first-line charge on the Consolidated Revenue Fund, completely insulated from annual appropriation or executive control.
Harmonizing National Identity and Voter Registers
The organisation suggested unifying multiple data platforms, such as the Permanent Voter Card (PVC), National Identity Number (NIN), and driver’s licenses, to create a single, comprehensive voter identification system. This integration will streamline voter registration processes and enhance the accuracy and integrity of the voter register.
PAACA recommended that INEC conduct rigorous mock logistics exercises well in advance of elections and engage reputable private sector logistics companies to ensure timely delivery of materials and personnel.
The group urged the National Assembly, INEC, political parties, and other stakeholders to prioritise these reforms ahead of the next election cycle. PAACA believes that Nigeria cannot afford another controversial poll and that these reforms will enhance the credibility and transparency of the electoral process.
In conclusion, PAACA’s demands for electoral reforms aim to enhance the credibility and transparency of the electoral process in Nigeria. The organisation believes that these reforms will help prevent manipulation, ensure accurate results, and promote inclusivity in the political space.
Key Proposals
- Direct electronic transmission of results from polling units to the national collation centre
- Regulation of nomination form costs by INEC
- Insulation of INEC from executive influence
- Harmonization of national identity and voter registers
- Enhancement of election logistics through mock exercises and private sector engagement
The success of these reforms will depend on the commitment of stakeholders to implement them effectively. PAACA’s efforts to promote electoral reforms are crucial in ensuring that Nigeria’s electoral process is transparent, credible, and inclusive.
The Chairman NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, who was represented by Comrade Sharon Emephia, Called on Government and major stakeholders to be sympathetic about the welfare of journalists especially those in the FCT.
Miss Ike, thanked PAACA for collaborating with the NUJ FCT Council to pull off the training. And declared that it was on point and the Union is open to more Advocacies with PAACA.
