Electoral Reforms in Nigeria: Dr. Hussaini Abdu Discusses Challenges and Opportunities
In a recent edition of Electoral Reform Hour, Dr. Hussaini Abdu, a distinguished public intellectual and development specialist, shed light on the critical issues surrounding electoral reforms in Nigeria and their implications for the nation’s democracy. With over 25 years of international leadership experience, including roles with Care International, Plan International, and ActionAid International, Dr. Abdu offered a comprehensive analysis of the current electoral landscape.
On the contentious issue of electronic transmission of election results. Dr. Abdu highlighted ongoing debates about whether the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is legally required to transmit results electronically. He noted that while many Nigerians expected this due to widespread belief in a legal mandate, the controversy reflects broader misunderstandings about the Electoral Act and the capabilities of INEC.
Dr. Abdu emphasized that although electronic transmission is seen as a safeguard against tampering, it is not without challenges. He cited examples from developed countries, such as Germany, where manual processes are still utilized despite technological advancements. He argued that for Nigeria to successfully mandate electronic transmission, INEC must be equipped with the necessary infrastructure to address issues like inconsistent internet access and potential sabotage.
The conversation also touched on the implications of centralizing election result collation. Dr. Abdu raised concerns that while this might streamline processes, it could complicate the handling of electoral complaints. He suggested that eliminating certain levels of collation, such as ward-level in presidential elections, could reduce complexity but increase the burden on INEC to manage complaints at a national level.
In addressing the issue of vote buying, Dr. Abdu acknowledged it as a crime but urged a nuanced understanding of its roots in Nigeria’s socio-political context. He argued that vote buying reflects deeper systemic issues, including a cash-based economy and entrenched corruption, and called for stronger mechanisms to hold political parties and candidates accountable.
The discussion also highlighted the high cost of elections in Nigeria. Dr. Abdu attributed these expenses to the need for extensive safeguards due to low public trust in the electoral process. He noted that INEC must prepare for contingencies like re-runs, contributing to the overall cost.
Concluding the edition, Dr. Abdu stressed the need for greater community engagement in the electoral reform process. He criticized the effectiveness of current public hearings by the National Assembly and advocated for more meaningful citizen participation. Additionally, he proposed that Nigerians abroad should contribute to the nation through taxes if they are to be granted voting rights, emphasizing the need for a structured approach to diaspora voting.
Dr. Abdu’s insights underscore the importance of addressing both the technical and systemic challenges of electoral reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and enhance public trust in the electoral process.
LISTEN TO THE FULL DISCUSSION HERE