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Professor Abubakar Umar Kari has called for all election disputes to be resolved before elected officials take office. He believes this will reduce Nigeria’s growing dependence on the courts to decide election results. Speaking on Electoral Reform Hour, a program on Radio Nigeria hosted by PAACA, the University of Abuja professor said that the high number of court cases after elections weakens trust in the process.

Research shows that 30 to 45 percent of election results in Nigeria are challenged in court. Prof. Kari explained that many politicians see the courts as another way to win power, even when they do not have strong cases. He added that if elections were properly conducted, fewer people would need to go to court.

“It would be better if all election disputes were resolved before officials are sworn in. The best way to fix our court-dependent democracy is to ensure that cases are settled before leaders take office. But with our tight election schedule, this is difficult to achieve,” he said.

He blamed the problem on several factors, including political leaders who do not follow the rules, unclear court decisions, and the belief that court cases can be influenced. He also pointed out that Nigeria’s political system encourages distrust and deep divisions, making it harder for people to believe in fair elections.

Prof. Kari suggested that Nigeria should fully implement the Justice Uwais Electoral Reform recommendations. These reforms would make the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) truly independent. While INEC now has financial freedom, he said it still needs protection from political interference.

On prosecuting election offenders, Prof. Kari said instead of creating a new Electoral Offences Commission, INEC should be given more legal power. Strengthening its legal department and hiring top lawyers could help ensure justice.

He also spoke about voter apathy, saying that many Nigerians have lost interest in voting because they feel their leaders do not work in their best interests. He urged political parties to be more open to the people, rather than being controlled by a few powerful individuals (Godfathers).

In conclusion, Prof. Kari emphasized that democracy is about choice and participation. “We cannot have a democracy where people’s choices are restricted. The ordinary citizen must have the right to choose their leaders, their government, and the policies they want. Participation is key, democracy thrives when more people engage in the process, not just by voting, but by joining political parties, civil society, and holding leaders accountable,” he stated.

He urged Nigerians to be more involved in the democratic process, stressing that stronger institutions and active citizen engagement are necessary for a credible electoral system.

LISTEN TO THE FULL DISCUSSION HERE