INEC seeks electoral law review to accommodate innovations

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has canvassed the review of the electoral law to accommodate some innovations that the Commission is already using in conducting elections.

According to him, it is essential that some sections of the legal framework be reviewed and expanded to accommodate those innovations already in use in the system.

This, he said, would improve the effective and efficient discharge of the Commission’s supervisory functions and responsibilities as an Election Management Body (EMB).

Yakubu spoke, yesterday, through the Lagos State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Prof. Ayobami Salami, during the commencement of a three-day Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) constitutional review conference, held in collaboration with the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) in Lagos State.

His words: “INEC recognises and appreciates the vital role of political parties in our democratic process. As the custodian of electoral integrity, we are committed to fostering a level playing field where all political actors can thrive; ensuring that the voices of Nigerians are heard and respected.

“The Commission is also grateful to the WFD for their support in sustaining the democratic stability in our dear nation, Nigeria.

“The constitutional framework of any nation forms the bedrock of its governance; guiding its institutions and ensuring the rights of its citizens.

“Therefore, the collaboration between IPAC and WFD to focus on review and propose constitutional improvements demonstrates an exemplary commitment to deepening democracy, and fostering inclusivity in Nigeria.”

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Country Director, WFD Nigeria, Adebowale Olorunmola, said IPAC wants to transition from using Code of Conduct to a Constitution.

According to him, well-developed Constitution will enable IPAC to not only mediate in inter-party relations but also become a champion of good governance, peaceful electoral processes, and gender-inclusive politics.

He said that the process was powered under WFD’s Support for Women Representation through Actions by Political Parties (SWRAPP) Project, funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO).

“At the heart of today’s deliberations is the SWRAPP Project, which seeks to increase women’s representation in political leadership and decision-making processes.

“Women constitute a significant part of Nigeria’s population, and their meaningful participation in politics is vital for achieving balanced, inclusive, and sustainable development.”

“As we review the Constitution, I urge you all to ensure that gender inclusivity is prioritised. Political parties play a key role in creating pathways for women to emerge as leaders, and IPAC, through this process, can lead by example,” Olorunmola said.

He lamented that Rwanda ranks first globally, with 61 per cent of its women in the single/lower house, while Nigeria ranks last at 180, with a mere four per cent of women in the lower house.

Six African countries (Rwanda, Senegal, South Africa, Namibia,
Mozambique and Ethiopia), he stated, have achieved 40 per cent or higher women’s representation in their lower houses.

He, therefore, challenged Nigerian political parties to work to improve the ranking by 2027.

In his goodwill message, IPAC National Chairman, Yusuf M. Dantalle, explained that the transition from the use of Code of Conduct to a full-fledged Constitution had become imperative so as to provide a more comprehensive and robust framework for governance, outlining the rights, responsibilities, and relationships among members, leaders, and stakeholders.

This, he said, would enhance accountability, transparency, and the rule of law within the Council.

Dantalle, therefore, urged the representatives of all the 19 registered political parties to participate actively in the deliberations, sharing their insights and expertise to help shape the future of IPAC.

The Deputy Head of Mission, Simon Field, who represented the British High Commissioner, Dr Richard Montgomery, delivered his goodwill message.