Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID) has said mistrust in Nigeria’s electoral system is now at an all-time high.
This revelation is contained in a report released by the programme director, CJID, Akintunde Babatunde and deputy d we irector, Head, Election Analysis Centre of CJID.
The report said the recent gubernatorial and state assembly elections showed an all-time high level of voter indifference and mistrust of the electoral system.
“The voter turnout and fervor were lower than during the presidential elections and could be linked to some of the outcomes of the same.
“By giving the youths the opportunity to actively lead the process via careful observation and reporting, the CJID has made it a point of duty to support the strengthening of democracy throughout Nigeria.
“Despite the unlawful attacks and threats, our observers that were officially accredited by the electoral umpire did not skimp on their reporting. Though great strides have been made with the 2023 elections, “ the centre said.
CJID recommended the establishment of an independent panel to review the election.
“An expedited action on the creation of an electoral offenses commission to handle all electoral misdemeanors in order to strengthen the electoral process.
“INEC should be more proactive in the discharge of its functions especially as it relates to its technological process and oversight on political parties
“Post-2023 general election amendment of the electoral act should make room for rerun in places where elections are canceled due to violence.
duce the disruption of polling introduction of the new electoral act and the laudable efforts of key stakeholders, it is clear that more need to be done to ensure that Nigeria is able to undertake elections that would be perceived by all to be ‘free and fair’.
“Electoral integrity mostly did not find an expression in the election as the process was marred by thuggery together with ethnic slug which led to the disenfranchisement of voters. while not disenfranchising citizens in those areas, “ the report added.
