Osita Chidoka, a former Minister of Aviation and a prominent member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), expressed his disappointment with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He criticised INEC for not electronically transmitting the 2023 general election results in real time.
Chidoka voiced his concerns on Channels TV’s Politics Today, highlighting that INEC had previously made commitments during the Anambra, Ekiti, and Osun gubernatorial elections but failed to deliver.
Chidoka described INEC as a “monumental disgrace” and expressed his embarrassment over its actions. He had previously suggested third-party verification of INEC’s system to ensure smooth operations on election day.
However, INEC reported a glitch on the day of the election.
Chidoka also mentioned that INEC’s failure to adhere to its regulations should not be a reason to invalidate an election.
Furthermore, he believed that real-time transmission of results would have eliminated the need for court disputes. He suggested that the results at polling units should match those at collation centres to ensure transparency.
Chidoka also hinted that President Tinubu might have secured a victory if the election process had been conducted correctly.
Editorial:
Upholding Electoral Integrity: The Role of INEC
The essence of a democratic system lies in the integrity of its electoral process. The recent criticisms directed at INEC by Osita Chidoka bring to light the challenges faced in ensuring transparent and timely election results.
While technological advancements promise efficiency, their implementation requires meticulous planning and testing.
INEC’s role in the electoral process is pivotal. It is not just about conducting elections but ensuring that the process is transparent, fair, and free from glitches.
The recent issues with electronic transmission highlight the need for robust systems and contingency plans. It’s essential for INEC to regain the trust of the public and stakeholders.
Real-time result transmission can significantly reduce post-election disputes and enhance public confidence. It ensures that the voice of the electorate is heard and respected.
As Nigeria progresses, it’s crucial for institutions like INEC to evolve, adapt, and uphold the principles of democracy.
Did You Know?
- INEC was established in 1998 to oversee elections in Nigeria.
- The commission is responsible for organising federal and state elections in Nigeria.
- INEC introduced the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) to improve the electoral process and reduce fraud.
- The use of electronic voting machines is being explored to further enhance the transparency of elections in Nigeria.
- INEC has a significant role in voter education, ensuring that citizens are informed about their rights and the electoral process.
