Concern #102 - Perceived INEC Interference Undermining Electoral Integrity

Description:
There is growing public concern that the Nigerian electoral body, INEC, is not acting with sufficient independence and transparency. Allegations include rigging, manipulation of results, suppression of voter turnout, and most recently, the questionable replacement of the INEC chairman by the current administration. These actions have led to widespread distrust in the system and cast doubt over the legitimacy of recent and future elections.

Desired Outcome:
A fully independent and transparent INEC, restored to public trust, with operational and legal safeguards that prevent manipulation or executive interference, thereby ensuring free and fair elections.

What Could Go Wrong:
If public trust continues to erode and elections are seen as rigged or predetermined, voter turnout may collapse, civil unrest could increase, and democratic governance in Nigeria may be permanently weakened. Legitimate candidates may be blocked from power, and international confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions will continue to fall.

Current Situation:
Many Nigerians, especially youth and first-time voters, were energised by the 2023 elections but later disillusioned due to reported inconsistencies in INEC’s process. Key opposition figures, including Peter Obi, have challenged the outcome, and changes at the leadership level of INEC have further fueled suspicions of government influence. There is no clear accountability or path for reform in place.

Action Strategy:
1. Surface and consolidate public concerns through the OpenConcerns platform.
2. Collect verifiable experiences and structured feedback on the INEC process.
3. Facilitate expert commentary and legal insight into electoral best practices.
4. Prepare recommendations for INEC reform to be championed by credible politicians.
5. Track and report engagement (number of comments, location, type) to present a people-driven case for reform.

Concern Category:
Election

Location:
Nigeria

Analysis: Not available

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