A Week After the USA Elections – Lessons Learnt on Transparent Electioneering System – Nigeria En route to Good Democratic Processes as Opined by the APGA National Chairman – Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa – Written by NDUKA ANYANWU
A week after the US elections, Nigeria can draw valuable lessons on transparent electioneering systems to enhance its democratic processes. The APGA National Chairman Barrister Sly Ezeokenwa emphasized the importance of ADOPTING A CREDIBLE AND RELIABLE ELECTORAL SYSTEM, similar to the one employed in the US.
Emulating the US Electoral System
The US electoral system is renowned for its transparency and accountability. Nigeria can learn from the following aspects:
1. Independent Electoral Commission: Establishing an IMPARTIAL electoral commission ensures free and fair elections. In Nigeria, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) plays a crucial role in conducting elections and therefore, should make efforts in ensuring a more credible options just as that f the United State where they highly relied on electronic transmission of the on-the spot elections result.
2. Voter Registration: Implementing a robust voter registration process helps prevent electoral malpractices. The US employs a secure online registration system, which Nigeria can emulate.
3. Election Observation: Allowing local and international observers to monitor elections promotes transparency. Nigeria has made progress in this area, with organizations like the European Union and the International Republican Institute observing its elections.
Nigeria’s Electoral Reforms
Nigeria has made significant strides in electoral reforms since its transition to democracy in 1999. Some notable reforms include:
1. Electoral Act: The Electoral Act of 2022 aimed to improve the electoral process by introducing electronic voting and enhancing the commission’s powers.
2. Voter Education: INEC has launched initiatives to educate voters on the electoral process, reducing the risk of electoral violence.
3. Technology Integration: Nigeria has started incorporating technology into its electoral process, including the use of card readers and electronic voting systems.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite progress, Nigeria still faces challenges in ensuring transparent elections. Some of these challenges include:
1. Nigeria has experienced electoral violence in the past, which can undermine the credibility of elections.
2. Vote-Buying: The practice of vote-buying remains prevalent, compromising the integrity of elections.
To overcome these challenges, Nigeria must:
1. Strengthen Institutions: Enhance the capacity and independence of electoral institutions.
2. Promote Civic Education: Educate citizens on the importance of peaceful and credible elections.
3. Encourage Active Citizenship: Foster an environment where citizens actively participate in the electoral process.
By learning from the US electoral system and addressing its unique challenges, Nigeria can consolidate its democratic gains and ensure transparent, free, and fair elections. The APGA National Chairman’s call for improved democratic processes is a step in the right direction, and Nigeria must continue to work towards achieving this goal.
Electoral Reforms
Electoral reforms are crucial in resolving Nigeria’s political party crisis. This can be achieved through the amendment of electoral laws to ensure free, fair, and credible elections. Additionally, strengthening the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure its independence and effectiveness in conducting elections is vital. This the National Assembly is bound to ensure its success at least before the next general elections in 2027
