- NBA supports national dialogue on electoral offenses.
- Calls for reform of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
- NBA President emphasizes the need to transform the political culture.
- Growing coalition calling for bold reforms in Nigeria’s electoral system.
NBA Demands Election Overhaul: What’s the Fuss?
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) is stepping up and demanding some serious changes to how elections are run in Nigeria. NBA President, Afam Osigwe, SAN, made it clear during a meeting in Abuja with the National Democratic Institute (NDI). The NBA is ready to partner in the push for credible, people-driven electoral reform across the country.
Why Now? The Backstory
According to Ben Aga, NDI Program Director, the NBA has shown real leadership in defending democracy and the rule of law. This has earned them the trust of stakeholders and democratic institutions both at home and abroad. The NDI believes the NBA is a key ally in the fight for credible elections.
Youth Discontent: A Wake-Up Call
Femi John, Head of Programs at KDI, highlighted that over 5,000 young Nigerians surveyed are not happy with the electoral process. They’re pushing for critical reforms like unbundling INEC, creating an Electoral Offenses Commission, and resolving election petitions *before* elected officials take office. This is important because currently, elected officials can stay in office even with a pending election tribunal.
Key Demands on the Table
- Unbundling INEC: Giving INEC more independence by splitting its responsibilities.
- Electoral Offenses Commission: A dedicated body to prosecute those who rig elections.
- Pre-Swearing-In Resolution: Resolving election disputes before officials assume office.
NBA’s Take: It’s Not Just About Laws
Osigwe stressed that reforms must go beyond just laws. It’s about changing the entire political culture. He said, “Changing laws alone won’t fix our electoral problems. We need to reform the minds of political actors and the institutions that enable impunity. Justice must not be lost in technicalities.”
Ghana vs. Nigeria: A Tale of Two Elections
Osigwe shared his experience as an observer in the recent Ghanaian elections. He pointed out the high level of transparency in Ghana’s collation process, contrasting it sharply with Nigeria’s flawed system. Restoring trust in electoral institutions is crucial, and the NBA is ready to jump in.
The Bottom Line: Justice and Stability
The NBA is all in, ready to work with NDI and other partners to ensure electoral justice, prosecute offenders, and make democracy work for Nigerians. As Osigwe put it, “Justice is not just a legal ideal, it is the foundation of national stability.”
What’s Next?
This meeting highlights a growing movement of civil society, youth groups, and legal professionals demanding real changes to Nigeria’s electoral system. The goal is to ensure future elections truly reflect the will of the people.
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